GUWAHATI | Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala did not appear before the Assam Crime Branch on Saturday despite being summoned in connection with the ongoing investigation into the passport controversy linked to allegations involving Riniki Bhuyan Sharma.

The summons was issued as part of the probe into a case registered against Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera over alleged remarks concerning the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. According to sources, investigators sought Surjewala’s appearance after his name reportedly surfaced during the questioning of Khera by the Crime Branch.

Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding statements allegedly made in connection with the controversy.The case against Khera was filed on allegations of making false accusations against Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, triggering a political storm in Assam. Officials said the Crime Branch investigation is continuing, and further action may follow based on the findings of the probe.