Nandita Gorlosa Joins Congress After BJP Denial of Ticket
Nandita Gorlosa's Political Shift
Guwahati, March 23: Assam Cabinet Minister Nandita Gorlosa has officially submitted her nomination as a Congress candidate for the Haflong Legislative Assembly constituency. This move comes after she was denied a ticket by the BJP for the upcoming Assembly elections, prompting her to switch parties on Monday.
Previously representing Haflong in the outgoing Assembly, Gorlosa made the transition to Congress on Sunday evening after the BJP selected newcomer Rupali Langthasa for the seat instead.
Despite attempts by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to convince her to stay with the BJP, Gorlosa opted to join the Congress party.
The Congress had initially nominated its state general secretary Nirmal Langthasa for Haflong but later withdrew his candidacy to support Gorlosa, citing the decision as being in the 'greater public interest.'
Gaurav Gogoi, president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), stated that Gorlosa was overlooked by the BJP for voicing concerns regarding land issues in Dima Hasao.
"The BJP's decision to sideline Nandita Gorlosa was unjust. She has consistently raised important issues in Dima Hasao, particularly regarding land transfers to large corporations without consulting tribal communities. This is why she was denied a ticket," Gogoi remarked while heading to file his nomination in Jorhat on Monday.
"We do not support tribal leaders who advocate for large corporations. We welcome those who defend tribal rights and uphold constitutional protections," he added.
In response, Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, who is also a candidate from Dhemaji, characterized Gorlosa's decision as personal while stressing the importance of party loyalty.
"This is her personal choice, as the party cannot accommodate everyone. Only one candidate can be nominated per constituency. Party members should prioritize the party over individual ambitions," Pegu stated.
The Congress party expressed its enthusiasm for Gorlosa's inclusion, emphasizing her contributions to the hill district.
"We are pleased to announce that Nandita Gorlosa has joined the Congress. She has been a strong advocate for Dima Hasao over the past five years and has consistently upheld her principles and beliefs," the party declared.