NDA Allies Finalize Seat-Sharing in Assam Ahead of Assembly Elections
Seat-Sharing Agreement Reached
Guwahati, March 17: The seat-sharing arrangement among the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners in Assam has been largely settled, with the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) expected to contest approximately 26 Assembly seats, while the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) will contest around 11 seats, as stated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday.
After a series of discussions in New Delhi, Sarma announced that the framework for the alliance has been established and initial talks regarding candidate selection have been completed.
“The alliance with NDA parties is finalized, and we have also concluded preliminary discussions regarding the candidate list,” he remarked.
He mentioned that the BJP’s Central Parliamentary Board is set to convene at around 7 pm on Wednesday, after which the party is anticipated to unveil its candidate list either late that evening or by the morning of March 19.
Indicating a change in the candidate selection approach, Sarma emphasized that the BJP intends to present a blend of new faces, women candidates, and representatives from various communities.
“We will include several new faces, women candidates, and representatives from different communities and tribes. This time, youth will have increased representation,” he stated.
Sarma clarified that, aside from the seats designated for AGP and BPF, the BJP will announce its candidates in a single comprehensive list.
Openness to Welcoming Bordoloi
‘BJP Open to Accommodating Bordoloi’: CM
In a notable comment regarding Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi amidst ongoing political shifts, Sarma indicated that while there has been no formal communication with him, the door remains open for Bordoloi to join the BJP.
“There has been no contact with Pradyut Bordoloi. However, I believe he should not remain in Congress. It would be appropriate for him to join the BJP, and I would welcome him,” he expressed.
Sarma added that should Bordoloi decide to join the BJP, the party would ensure he is accommodated in the Assembly elections.
“We will certainly reserve seats for him to contest. We will extend the same respect and honor to him as we did to Bhupen Borah,” Sarma noted.
These comments come in light of reported internal strife within the Congress regarding ticket distribution in Lahorighat, where Bordoloi had recently threatened to leave the party due to disagreements over candidate selection.
As the NDA finalizes its electoral strategy and the Opposition grapples with internal issues, the political atmosphere in Assam is gearing up for a competitive showdown ahead of the Assembly elections.