Political Shift in Dibrugarh: Congress Opts Out of Assembly Elections

Congress's Withdrawal from Dibrugarh Elections

Dibrugarh, March 22: The Indian National Congress (INC) has made a surprising decision by not nominating a candidate for the Dibrugarh Legislative Assembly Constituency, a region historically regarded as one of its strongholds. This move has sparked intense reactions and discussions regarding the party's influence in the area.

Senior BJP leader Prasanta Phukan expressed his disappointment over this decision, labeling it as ‘deeply unfortunate’ and highlighting the significance of a party with a rich history of over 140 years being absent from the electoral race.

Phukan remarked, “It is disheartening to see the Congress, which has held this constituency for many years, opting out this time. Dibrugarh, alongside Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh, was one of the Congress’ key strongholds post-Independence.”

He attributed the Congress's withdrawal to changing political dynamics, which he believes are influenced by the development-oriented governance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Phukan noted that the BJP's growth into areas traditionally dominated by Congress indicates an increasing public trust in its policies and initiatives.

In this context, Phukan is vying for a potential fifth consecutive term from Dibrugarh, emphasizing that his electoral success is based on ongoing development efforts and governance focused on the needs of the people.

“Dibrugarh is on the verge of becoming a significant urban hub, with plans to establish it as the State’s second capital. If I am re-elected, I will prioritize essential infrastructure enhancements, including improved urban planning and parking solutions,” he stated.

Historically, Congress figures like Ramesh Chandra Barooah and Keshab Chandra Gogoi have each won four terms from this constituency, highlighting its long-standing connection with the party.

A win for Phukan would mark a new milestone in Dibrugarh’s electoral history, and he is confident of securing victory by a margin of over 60,000 votes.

The Congress, along with its opposition allies, has nominated Mainak Patra from the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), a relatively new entrant in the political scene.

The Congress's choice to withdraw from the Dibrugarh elections signifies a pivotal moment in Assam's political landscape, raising questions about the party's strategic direction and indicating a notable shift in the state's electoral dynamics.

This decision has also led to internal discord within the Congress party in the district.