BJP's Dilip Saikia Clarifies Candidate Selection Process Ahead of Elections
No Candidates Finalized Yet, Asserts BJP President
Jorhat, Feb 26: The president of the Assam BJP, Dilip Saikia, has firmly stated that no candidates have been confirmed for any constituency at this point. He emphasized that the final decisions will be made following the party's parliamentary board procedures.
During a press interaction in Jorhat on Thursday, Saikia remarked, “No BJP candidate has been confirmed anywhere. This is my definitive statement. Until the parliamentary board announces names individually, no candidacy should be deemed confirmed.”
His comments come in light of recent political discussions sparked by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's remarks during an event in Mariani on February 24, where he suggested that incumbent MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi might be nominated again for the Mariani seat.
Addressing the speculation, Saikia highlighted that the party's candidate selection is based on a systematic evaluation rather than personal preferences.
“In the BJP, there is no differentiation between seasoned politicians and newcomers. The candidate will be chosen based on who meets the party's standards, gains public trust, and has the best chance of winning. The expectations of the electorate and the party's organizational strength are crucial factors,” he stated.
When asked about the potential for younger leaders to take center stage in the upcoming elections, the state BJP chief reiterated that merit and performance are the sole determinants.
“It could be a young leader or someone with extensive political experience. The party prioritizes capability, dedication, and grassroots support. Those who are advancing and showing leadership within the organization will be considered,” he added.
Saikia also criticized the opposition alliances, claiming that the Congress-led coalition efforts have not resonated with the public.
“Six months or a year ago, Congress formed a coalition, but it failed to gain public acceptance. We believe a robust opposition is essential in a democracy, but it should not be motivated by personal ambitions or solely the desire to become Chief Minister,” he remarked.
He further accused the opposition alliance of lacking a clear vision.
“The natural unity among Congress, Raijor Dal, and Assam Jatiya Parishad is yet to be established. Their primary focus seems to be on ousting the current government rather than providing a constructive plan for Assam's development,” he stated.
Regarding the possibility of friendly contests between the BJP and its ally, the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), Saikia mentioned that discussions are ongoing and no conclusive decision has been reached.
Earlier in the day, Saikia paid tribute to freedom fighter Maniram Dewan on his death anniversary at his memorial located in Chinamora Tea Estate, Jorhat.
During the event, he acknowledged Dewan's significant contributions to both the freedom movement and the tea industry in Assam. Present at the memorial were Kaziranga MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, along with senior BJP officials and party members.