Political Tensions Rise in Assam as Nomination Deadline Approaches

As the deadline for nomination papers approaches, Assam's political landscape is heating up. Key figures like Nandita Garlosa have switched parties, and internal dissent within the BJP is surfacing. With 116 candidates already nominated, the scrutiny process is set for March 24. The Congress party has also announced new candidates, while some leaders are opting to run as Independents. This article delves into the unfolding political drama as parties prepare for the upcoming Assembly elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 09:26 IST

Intensifying Political Activity in Assam

Guwahati, Mar 23: As the deadline for submitting nomination papers nears, political dynamics in Assam have escalated, with various parties racing to finalize their candidates for the remaining constituencies while addressing internal conflicts arising from ticket allocations.

In a significant setback for the BJP, discontented leader Nandita Garlosa switched allegiance to the Congress late Sunday, despite last-minute attempts by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to persuade her otherwise. Garlosa, who served as a Cabinet minister in the outgoing government, is expected to run for election from Haflong.

Amid widespread dissatisfaction among candidates, Chief Minister Sarma attempted to minimize the dissent, asserting that the denial of tickets is a common occurrence in electoral politics.

"Eighteen sitting MLAs have not been re-nominated, but there is no problem. They will be given other responsibilities. My ticket could also be revoked at any time," he remarked after his meeting with Garlosa in Haflong. Sarma also conferred with AGP leader Ramendra Narayan Kalita at the veteran's home the previous night.

So far, 116 candidates have submitted their nominations for the upcoming Assembly elections. The scrutiny of these papers is scheduled for March 24, with the final date for withdrawal set for March 26.

The Congress party has announced seven additional candidates today. Former BJP MLA Amar Chand Jain, who joined the Congress on Saturday, has been nominated for the Katigorah seat.

Other candidates include Joseph Hasda (Gosaingaon), Birkhang Boro (Dotma), Rajat Kanti Saha (Bijni), Anchula Gwara Daimary (Bhergaon), Narayan Adhikari (Majhbat), and Nirmal Langthasa (Haflong).

Additionally, Bihpuria MLA Amiya Kumar Bhuyan has resigned from the BJP after the party nominated newly joined leader and former APCC president Bhupen Borah for his constituency. Bhuyan has declared his intention to run as an Independent candidate.