Tensions Rise Between BJP and AGP Ahead of Assembly Elections in Assam
Political Strain in Assam
Golaghat, Feb 3: As the Assembly elections approach, the longstanding alliance between the BJP and AGP is facing significant strain, becoming increasingly evident in recent days.
Three constituencies—Dergaon, Khumtai in Golaghat district, and Barhampur in Nagaon—are at the center of this political discord, particularly important for the AGP.
In Dergaon, tensions heightened after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the BJP plans to nominate its own candidate and expressed openness to a friendly competition with AGP.
This statement triggered a strong response from AGP, which organized a Sankalp Samavesh rally at the Naren Sharma Memorial Playground on Tuesday.
Historically an AGP stronghold, the rally attracted over 20,000 party members, signaling the party's determination to assert its claim over the constituency.
During the event, AGP leader and Cabinet Minister Atul Bora emphasized that the gathering was a defense of regional politics rather than merely an electoral strategy.
“This assembly showcases Assam’s rich tradition of regionalism and its future prospects. The Sankalp Samavesh is not solely about the elections but about securing a prosperous future for Assam and its citizens,” Bora stated.
Bora further asserted the party's commitment to fortifying AGP and enhancing its regional focus. “A robust regional identity safeguards the state’s interests and needs,” he added.
Currently, AGP holds the Dergaon seat, with their candidate Bhabendra Nath Bharali winning in the 2021 elections by securing 64,043 votes, which accounted for approximately 48% of the total votes.
In contrast, the BJP is actively working to strengthen its foothold in Dergaon. Just a day before the AGP rally, over 500 individuals joined the BJP in the area.
Additionally, reports suggest that several leaders and members from both AGP and Congress have shifted allegiance to the BJP recently, boosting the party's momentum.
In Khumtai, grassroots AGP members are advocating for their party to be allocated the seat instead of the BJP.
Local AGP leaders assert that their party has substantial organizational backing in the constituency, with many feeling overlooked despite their loyalty to the alliance.
“Since 2016, we have consistently supported the alliance and collaborated at every turn. However, an alliance should reflect on the ground, not just in discussions. Many members feel sidelined due to alliance politics,” remarked a local leader.
Barhampur Dispute
A similar sentiment of discontent is emerging in Barhampur, where AGP leaders are vocally requesting the return of the seat to their party.
This constituency has been linked to AGP for over 35 years and holds significant emotional value, having elected former Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta twice.
AGP leader Manimadhav Mahanta noted that Barhampur was handed over to the BJP in the last election due to health issues faced by their candidate.
“Despite our full support, the alliance candidate won by a narrow margin,” he stated, asserting that there is no evident anti-incumbency against the current MLA.
He called upon Chief Minister Sarma, BJP state president Dilip Saikia, and AGP president Atul Bora to reconsider the seat-sharing arrangement.
“As an NDA partner, we urge that a strong AGP candidate be allowed to contest from Barhampur. Our members are motivated and believe they have public support,” Mahanta concluded.
Despite the rising tensions, AGP leaders have reiterated their commitment to the BJP–AGP alliance, even as seat negotiations threaten to challenge the unity of the NDA ahead of the elections.