Elections – Assam Minister Nandita Gorlosa Switches to Congress Ahead of Polls
Elections – In a significant political development ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, former Bharatiya Janata Party leader and state minister Nandita Gorlosa has joined the Congress after being denied a party ticket.
Resignation from BJP and Ministerial Role
Gorlosa stepped down from both her ministerial position and primary membership of the BJP, submitting her resignation to state party president Dilip Saikia. In her letter, she formally announced her immediate exit from the party and requested to be relieved of all official responsibilities. She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the party and the public during her tenure.
Her resignation came shortly before her induction into the Congress, marking a swift political transition at a crucial time in the election calendar.
Congress Welcomes New Entrant
The Congress officially confirmed Gorlosa’s entry into the party in the presence of senior leaders, including Assam Pradesh Congress Committee general secretary Nirmal Langthasa. The party described her as a prominent voice from the Dima Hasao region and highlighted her commitment to her principles over the past several years.
Party leaders emphasized that her inclusion strengthens their position in the hill districts and reflects growing support for the Congress among regional leaders.
Haflong Seat Adjustment and Candidate Announcement
To accommodate Gorlosa’s candidature, Nirmal Langthasa, who was earlier nominated from the Haflong constituency, agreed to step aside. The Congress stated that this decision was taken in the broader interest of the public and the party’s electoral strategy.
Gorlosa is expected to contest from the Haflong seat as the Congress candidate, with the party indicating that the formal announcement would be completed shortly.
Political Allegations and Party Stand
In its statement, the Congress also made allegations regarding Gorlosa’s treatment within the BJP, suggesting that her stance on certain issues may have led to political consequences. The party criticized the current state leadership, accusing it of prioritizing corporate interests over tribal concerns.
These remarks reflect the intensifying political rhetoric as parties prepare for the elections, with both sides seeking to consolidate support among key voter groups.
Election Preparations and Alliances
The Congress is gearing up to contest 100 out of the 126 Assembly seats in Assam. It has formed alliances with several regional and left parties, including Assam Jatiya Parishad, Raijor Dal, CPI(M), CPI(ML), and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference. Raijor Dal is expected to contest 11 constituencies as part of the alliance arrangement.
This coalition strategy is aimed at presenting a united opposition front against the ruling BJP in the upcoming polls.
Polling Schedule and Key Dates
According to the Election Commission of India, voting for all 126 Assembly constituencies will be conducted in a single phase on April 9. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
As the election date approaches, political shifts such as Gorlosa’s move are likely to influence local dynamics, particularly in constituencies like Haflong where candidate changes can impact voter sentiment.