Political Turmoil in Assam as BJP Candidates Face Rejection

The release of the BJP's candidate list for the Assam Assembly elections has triggered significant unrest within the party, leading to resignations from key leaders like Nihar Ranjan Das and Jayanta Kumar Das. Their departures highlight growing dissatisfaction over candidate selections, particularly the sidelining of long-standing members in favor of newcomers. As political tensions rise, the situation reflects a broader turmoil within parties ahead of the crucial elections, with ticket distribution emerging as a major point of contention. This unfolding drama sets the stage for a potentially transformative election period in Assam.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 17:27 IST

Political Fallout from BJP's Candidate List

Guwahati, Mar 19: The release of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) candidate list for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections on April 9 has sparked significant political unrest, with several leaders expressing their dissatisfaction and resigning after being denied tickets.

The first notable resignation came from Dholai, where sitting MLA Nihar Ranjan Das stepped down from the party shortly after the announcement.

In his resignation letter to the BJP leadership in Assam, Das reflected on his time in office as one characterized by “honest and sincere” service, emphasizing his efforts to bolster the party's presence in his constituency.

However, he lamented that his efforts had gone “unrecognized,” a clear nod to the denial of a ticket.

“Therefore, I am resigning from the primary membership of BJP,” he stated, asking to be relieved of all party duties.

The discontent extended beyond Dholai, as senior BJP figure Jayanta Kumar Das, who had hoped for a ticket from Dispur, also signaled his intention to leave after the seat was given to Pradyut Bordoloi, a newcomer from Congress.

Das criticized the party leadership, claiming that “longstanding BJP members are being overlooked in favor of former Congress members.”

He raised concerns about the candidate selection process, particularly questioning the reliance on internal surveys.

In a pointed remark directed at Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, he asked, “If senior leaders are being replaced, why not vacate Jalukbari for newcomers?”

He further alleged the presence of a “political syndicate,” asserting that decisions were being influenced by personal interests rather than party principles.

The seasoned politician also revealed plans to establish a new political party, aiming to unite what he termed “deprived and denied candidates” from Sadiya to Dhubri.

He indicated that discussions would commence immediately and that he intends to file his nomination on March 23.

“I may leave the party, but BJP will always hold a special place in my heart,” he remarked, while affirming his decision to pursue an independent path.

In another development, the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL), a former ally of the BJP, also encountered challenges, as Barama MLA Bhupen Boro resigned from the party.

“This decision comes after careful thought, as I find it difficult to fulfill my responsibilities effectively,” his resignation letter stated.

Boro has submitted his resignation to the party president, and there are rumors that he may join the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) soon.

As the candidate announcements continue to reshape the political arena, these resignations highlight the ongoing turmoil within parties ahead of the crucial Assembly elections, with ticket distribution once again becoming a contentious issue.