During a press conference on June 17, 2025, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused Rahul Gandhi and the Congress of consistently defending communal elements and supporting those involved in recent incidents of throwing meat at temples in the State.

Responding to State Congress president Gaurav Gogoi's criticism of these episodes earlier in the month, Mr. Sarma stated that the incidents and subsequent clashes have revealed the intelligence failure of the BJP-led government.

He dismissed claims that Hindus could slaughter a cow and place its parts in a temple, stating that individuals with such beliefs have a fundamentally different mentality.

Mr. Gogoi had raised concerns about the RSS's influence in Assam's villages ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, accusing the organization of sowing discord among communities.

Mr. Sarma questioned the Congress's defense of the individuals involved in the temple meat-throwing incidents, emphasizing that local residents have acknowledged the role of misguided youths in these events.

The Chief Minister criticized Rahul Gandhi, alleging that the Congress leader consistently shields communal elements and undermines social harmony.

On June 8, Mr. Sarma had reported illegal slaughter of cattle during Eid, with meat parts being thrown at places of worship. Subsequently, police have arrested 50 individuals in Dhubri and five in Goalpara in connection with these incidents.