Guwahati: The Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed by the Assam government to probe the alleged nexus between Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh and individuals in India, has uncovered startling evidence suggesting financial transactions between Sheikh and an Indian-based recipient over a three-year period. Without naming the lady in question Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi—the British-born wife of Congress MP and Deputy Leader of Opposition Gaurav Gogoi—Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 27 hinted at her possible involvement, raising serious questions about her foreign links.
Key findings of the SIT probe
Suspicious salary payments from Pakistan
– The SIT has accessed crucial evidence indicating that Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, a Pakistani national under scrutiny for anti-India activities, was allegedly transferring funds to an individual in India for over three years.
– CM Sarma stated, “The SIT has found substantial evidence on how Sheikh was paying a salary to one individual based in India from Pakistan.”* Though not directly named, sources confirm the probe is examining Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi’s financial records.
Multi-State Investigation
– The SIT has conducted raids and interrogations in Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Punjab, questioning several individuals linked to Sheikh’s Indian network.
– The team is also investigating whether this network was involved in espionage, funding anti-India activities, or influencing political figures.
Foreign travel & citizenship concerns
– Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi, despite being married to Gaurav Gogoi for 12 years, has not acquired Indian citizenship and continues to hold a British passport.
– Investigations reveal she has visited Pakistan multiple times, raising security concerns.
– Additionally, MP Gaurav Gogoi allegedly visited Palestine and met the Pakistani High Commissioner in Delhi, further intensifying scrutiny.
Next steps in the investigation
– The Assam government has directed the SIT to complete the probe by September 2025.
– Depending on the findings, the case may be **handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
– The state government will decide whether to:
– Recommend revocation of Visa (if applicable) for individuals involved.
– Issue an Interpol lookout notice against Ali Tauqeer Sheikh.
– Submit the report to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) or make it public.
Background of the case
The Assam government formed the SIT on February 16, 2025, following intelligence inputs on Ali Tauqeer Sheikh’s suspicious activities in India. The probe gained momentum after financial trails suggested possible illegal funding to individuals linked to influential figures.
– If proven, this could become one of the biggest enemy country link cases involving a political family.
– The findings may have major ramifications for Gaurav Gogoi’s political career and raise questions about security clearances for spouses of MPs holding foreign passports.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes are on whether the SIT will name Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi directly and what evidence will surface regarding her Pakistani connections.
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