Assam Political Landscape Shifts with Congress and Raijor Dal Alliance Ahead of Elections
In a pivotal move ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, the Congress party and Raijor Dal have officially formed an alliance, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. Gaurav Gogoi, the Assam Congress President, emphasized the urgency of uniting opposition forces against the current Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. With the election dates approaching, discussions are ongoing to expand the coalition, which currently includes several other parties. This alliance aims to secure a strong victory for the people of Assam, as both parties work towards a common goal of effective governance. Key election dates have been announced, adding to the urgency of these political maneuvers.
| Mar 20, 2026, 10:24 IST
Major Political Shift in Assam as Congress and Raijor Dal Form Alliance
With the announcement of the Assam Assembly election dates, a significant political transformation has occurred in the state. Ending months of speculation, the Congress party and Raijor Dal have officially signed an alliance agreement. This historic partnership was finalized during a press conference held at the residence of Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi in Jorhat.
Akhil Gogoi Highlights the Importance of Change for Jorhat Residents
Akhil Gogoi, the leader of Raijor Dal, described this alliance as a historic opportunity for the people of Jorhat. He stated, "It is time to replace a Chief Minister who only talks with a capable leader. For this, the public must ensure a significant victory through their votes."
Gaurav Gogoi Emphasizes the Need for a Broad Opposition Coalition
As the Assam Assembly elections approach, political activities have intensified. Gaurav Gogoi reiterated his efforts to form a broad opposition coalition, while the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced 88 candidates for the elections.
Ongoing Talks to Expand the Opposition Coalition
Gogoi emphasized that discussions are ongoing with Raijor Dal to expand the opposition coalition beyond the current five-party agreement. He mentioned that the Congress-led opposition coalition currently includes the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM), the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (CPI ML), and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC), along with Congress itself.
Urgency to Unite Against Assam's Chief Minister
He also stressed the urgency of uniting opposition forces against Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Speaking to reporters, he said, "We want to expand this opposition coalition, and therefore, we are in talks with another party, Raijor Dal. We are hopeful. Time is short, and we expect a positive outcome from our discussions with Raijor Dal, after which we will present the proposal to our national leadership for final advice... The people of Assam want to see a united opposition."
Gogoi's Commitment to Coalition Talks
Gogoi stated, "I am still in favor of the coalition. Our stance is firm. We want a coalition. We have very little time. We know that candidates must file nominations by Friday or Monday. I will not comment on the ongoing discussions regarding the coalition. As the state president, despite political conditions and pressures, I am trying to ensure that an alliance is formed between both parties."
Need for Opposition Coalition Highlighted by Gaurav Gogoi
Gaurav Gogoi also mentioned that he has informed the party's national leadership about the necessity of an opposition coalition in the state, emphasizing that a consensus has been reached at the state level. If approved, this would benefit both the party and Assam.
Election Timeline and Key Dates
He added, "I have personally communicated the need for a coalition to the party leadership and my colleagues in Assam. As the state president, I have presented facts and arguments to the national leadership. After the discussions are complete, we have informed the national leadership that a consensus has been reached at the state level. If this happens, it will benefit both the party and Assam. We have urged the national leadership to accept this proposal in favor of the coalition. Our role is to advise the national leadership; ultimately, they will grant approval."
The deadline for filing nomination papers is March 23, with document verification scheduled for the following day, and the last date for withdrawal of candidacies is March 26. The elections for the 126-member assembly will take place on April 9, with vote counting set for May 4.