Major Political Shift in Assam Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections

Significant Political Change in Assam

A notable shift has occurred in Assam's political landscape just before the 2026 assembly elections. Nandita Garloza, the Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare in Himanta Biswa Sarma's government, has left the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and joined the Congress party. This decision came after she was denied a ticket from the ruling BJP for the upcoming elections.

According to a statement from Congress, Garloza will contest from the Haflong constituency in the Dima Hasao district on the party's ticket. Initially, the Congress had fielded its state unit general secretary, Nirmal Langthasa, for this seat, but he has agreed to let Garloza run in the interest of 'wider public benefit.'

Congress Welcomes Garloza

The party expressed its pleasure in announcing Garloza's inclusion, stating, 'Nandita Garloza has been the voice of Dima Hasao for the past five years and has consistently stood firm for her beliefs and principles.'

Congress has accused the state’s Sports and Youth Welfare Minister of facing repercussions within the BJP, claiming that Himanta Biswa Sarma is primarily interested in selling tribal lands to large corporations.

Upcoming Elections and Political Dynamics

Garloza currently represents Haflong in the outgoing assembly. The BJP has nominated Rupali Langthasa as its candidate for this seat this time. The Assam Congress media team shared a photo of Garloza joining the party in Haflong, where she is seen with Congress leader Nirmal Langthasa and others.

On Sunday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Garloza's residence in Haflong, but neither party commented on the outcome of their meeting. Voting for Assam's 126-member assembly is scheduled for April 9, with results expected on May 4.

Political Allegations and Implications

Congress has launched a sharp attack on the BJP and the Chief Minister, alleging that Himanta Biswa Sarma's government is solely focused on selling tribal lands to large companies. According to the party, leaders who wish to protect tribal interests are being sidelined by the BJP. Garloza's defection has significantly altered the electoral dynamics in the Dima Hasao district, making the contest for the Haflong seat highly competitive.