Jayanta Das Files Nomination as Independent Candidate in Dispur

Jayanta Das Takes a Stand as Independent Candidate

Guwahati, Mar 23: Former senior leader of the BJP, Jayanta Das, has officially submitted his nomination as an Independent candidate for the Dispur Assembly constituency. This move comes just two days after he parted ways with the party, ending a 35-year affiliation.

In a press conference following his nomination, Das expressed that he had endured “threats, propaganda, and mental harassment” leading up to this moment, which he attributes to what he describes as a “Congress-BJP alliance.”

He elaborated that this term refers to Congress members who have transitioned to the BJP. “I was under significant mental strain. I received threats and approached my nomination with trepidation,” Das stated, alleging attempts to hinder his candidacy.

Reflecting on his departure from the BJP, Das mentioned feeling “relieved” after leaving, contrasting his current experience with his earlier days in the party's youth wing.

“During my time in the Yuva Morcha, I worked wholeheartedly. Even if I missed meals, there was a sense of fulfillment. Now, I face mental distress and exploitation,” he remarked.

Despite his resignation, Das affirmed his alignment with the BJP's ideology, framing his campaign as a battle against Congress. He pointed out that his main competitors in Dispur, BJP candidate Pradyut Bordoloi, whom he labeled a Congress defector, and Congress nominee Mira Borthakur, represent the same political faction.

“Dispur is unique as it has two Congress candidates contesting. I have been tasked with defeating them,” he asserted.

Das also claimed to have received threats prior to filing his nomination, which led him to maintain a low profile. “Anything could have transpired. I could have been obstructed from reaching the office or faced legal issues. That’s why I approached quietly,” he explained, adding that he was “not afraid” despite concerns of potential “mischief.”

He further accused certain factions within the BJP of spreading misinformation about his political journey, particularly regarding rumors of his return to the party.

Recalling his history, Das mentioned that he had a brief stint with the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) in 2013 but returned to the BJP in 2014, noting that the AGP is currently allied with the BJP.

In a pointed critique of the state leadership, Das questioned the party's current trajectory, alleging that long-standing members are being overlooked in favor of newcomers.

Das had recently resigned from the BJP after being denied a ticket for Dispur, citing “complete disregard” for his years of service.

He also hinted at the possibility of establishing a new political entity, tentatively named “Trinamool BJP,” while asserting that his decision to run independently was influenced by both “circumstances” and “divine will.”