Akhil Gogoi Claims Assam Voters Are Choosing Democracy Over Fascism
Akhil Gogoi's Stand on Assam Elections
Raijor Dal chief, Akhil Gogoi and associates, pose for a picture with inked fingers, on Thursday. (Photo: Akhil Gogoi/Meta)
Sivasagar, Apr 9: Akhil Gogoi, the president of Raijor Dal, asserted on Thursday that the citizens of Assam are casting their votes to protect democracy from what he termed the "fascist BJP government."
Gogoi, who is contesting for re-election from the Sibsagar constituency, noted that there has been a significant turnout at polling stations as people seek to change the current administration.
"We are dealing with an undemocratic regime. The Chief Minister embodies fascism," he stated during a press interaction after voting.
"The BJP has committed numerous notorious acts during its time in power. This election, the opposition will secure a decisive victory and establish the government," he expressed confidently.
He predicted that he would win the Sivasagar seat by a margin exceeding 50,000 votes.
Gogoi is in a competitive race against two other candidates from the NDA. The BJP has nominated former MLA Kushal Dowari, while its ally has put forward Amguri MLA Prodip Hazarika for the Sibsagar seat.
As of noon, Assam reported a voter turnout of 39.00%, with numbers steadily increasing as lines formed at polling locations.
In a notable change from the last Assembly elections, which were held in three phases in 2021, this year's voting is taking place in a single phase, with over 2.5 crore voters anticipated to participate in what is regarded as one of the most closely monitored political battles in the Northeast.
In this crucial election, the ruling BJP-led coalition is striving for a third consecutive term, while the Congress-led opposition aims to reclaim power after being ousted in 2016.