In Upper Assam, the Congress aims for a comeback, countering the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA’s stronghold in the upcoming elections. The NDA had previously clinched 41 out of 56 seats in the region, but the redrawing of constituencies has altered the political landscape. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s confidence stems from recent panchayat polls showing increased support.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw the completion of the delimitation process, setting the stage for Assam’s first state-level test under the new boundaries. The NDA anticipates advantages from the reconfigured constituencies in Upper Assam, potentially reshaping traditional voting patterns. The region, known for its tea economy and Ahom cultural heritage, holds significant political and economic sway in the state.
The Congress is forging a six-party alliance in a bid to regain lost ground, uniting influential regional figures. Key to this alliance are three leaders named Gogoi, collectively known as the “3G”, spearheading the Opposition’s challenge in Upper Assam. Gaurav Gogoi, a prominent figure, is contesting the Jorhat Assembly seat after a significant victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Akhil Gogoi, acclaimed for his activism, secured the Sibsagar seat in 2021 despite being incarcerated. His party, the Raijor Dal, now aligned with the Congress, holds two Assembly seats. Lurinjyoti Gogoi, another pivotal figure, founded the Assam Jatiya Parishad and is contesting from Khowang in Dibrugarh district. The Opposition’s focus extends to key constituencies like Tinsukia and Lakhimpur, aiming to influence voting patterns and consolidate support.
