Assam Congress Plans to Contest 100 Seats in Upcoming Assembly Elections

As the 2026 Assam Assembly elections approach, Gaurav Gogoi, president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, has announced plans for the Congress to contest 100 seats. In light of this, various opposition parties are advocating for a united front to effectively challenge the BJP-led NDA. Leaders emphasize the importance of private negotiations for seat-sharing, expressing optimism about reaching a consensus. With the BJP's strong election machinery, the need for collaboration among opposition parties is more crucial than ever. The discussions are expected to commence soon, with hopes for a pragmatic approach from Congress.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 11:09 IST

Opposition Parties Seek Unity for Seat-Sharing

Guwahati, Dec 31: Gaurav Gogoi, the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), has declared that the Congress will aim to contest 100 of the 126 seats in the upcoming 2026 Assam Assembly elections. In response, various opposition parties have expressed the need for a collaborative approach to effectively challenge the BJP-led NDA.

Leaders from different opposition factions conveyed their optimism regarding a potential seat-sharing agreement, despite Gogoi's recent statements. They emphasized the importance of negotiations occurring privately rather than in the public eye.

Suprakash Talukdar, secretary of the CPI(M) State committee, noted, “Gaurav Gogoi previously mentioned that discussions about seat-sharing would take place behind closed doors. We believe that a proper negotiation process among coalition partners can lead to a smooth resolution.”

When asked about expectations for Congress's flexibility in these discussions, Talukdar remarked, “We hope for a cooperative spirit. We are unaware of how many seats other parties are claiming, making it difficult to foresee potential challenges. However, we believe that through dialogue, we can reach a fair agreement.” He added that the CPI(M) is preparing for elections in 14 constituencies.

Kanak Gogoi, secretary of the CPI, expressed the urgency of resolving the seat-sharing matter. “Our party has pinpointed nine constituencies and is strategizing accordingly. While Gaurav Gogoi's comments may be a negotiating tactic, it does not imply that parties will remain inflexible. Compromises will emerge as discussions progress,” he stated.

He underscored the necessity of opposition unity, acknowledging the formidable election machinery of the BJP. “We must adopt a collaborative approach to defeat the BJP. All leaders recognize this reality. We cannot afford to be obstinate. We anticipate finalizing seat-sharing in January and hope Congress will take a practical stance,” he added.

Ziaur Rahman, secretary and spokesperson for the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), also highlighted the critical nature of opposition unity. “An alliance is essential. The BJP can be easily defeated if we contest together. Formal discussions will clarify the conditions of each party involved,” he said.

Rahman mentioned that the AJP is ready to contest in up to 40 constituencies but will defer to their decision-making body regarding how much they can compromise during negotiations.

Debanga Sourav Gogoi, secretary of Raijor Dal, pointed out that formal seat-sharing discussions have yet to begin. “Gaurav Gogoi's comments reflect the Congress party's position. We urge for these talks to commence soon. Each party will have its claims, and we need to engage in open discussions to reach a consensus. The Congress should adopt a more accommodating approach rather than a dominant one,” he concluded.