Opposition Alliance Takes Shape in Assam: Congress and Raijor Dal Finalize Seat-Sharing Deal
Strengthening Opposition Unity Ahead of Assam Elections
Guwahati: In a pivotal move to enhance opposition collaboration ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, the Indian National Congress and Raijor Dal have reached a seat-sharing agreement, with Congress designating 11 constituencies for the regional party led by Akhil Gogoi.
Under this arrangement, Raijor Dal will field candidates in Sivasagar, Dalgaon, Dhing, Sissiborgaon, Digboi, Bokakhat, Manas, Tezpur, Kaliabor, Margherita, and Mariani.
This alliance is viewed as a vital step towards unifying anti-BJP votes across the state.
Moreover, both parties have consented to engage in 'friendly contests' in Goalpara East and Gauripur, where candidates from both the Congress and Raijor Dal will compete.
This development is part of ongoing efforts by opposition factions in Assam to establish a more extensive coalition to challenge the ruling BJP in the forthcoming elections.
Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president and Lok Sabha MP Gaurav Gogoi stated that there is an increasing demand from the public for opposition parties to unite to offer a credible alternative to the current government.
He mentioned that the Congress is actively involved in discussions regarding alliances and seat-sharing with Raijor Dal, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), the CPI(M), and the CPI(Marxist-Leninist) Liberation.
Gogoi called on other like-minded parties to join forces, emphasizing that a united opposition would be more effective in contesting the government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma.
He also noted that the proposed coalition aims to promote inclusive development, protect the land rights of citizens, and work towards creating a 'new Assam.'
The Congress-Raijor Dal agreement could significantly influence the electoral landscape in various constituencies, especially in Upper Assam, where both parties have a strong foothold.
Voting for the 126-member Assembly is scheduled for April 9, with results to be announced on May 4.