Elections – NDA Candidates March Together to File Nominations in Guwahati
Elections – In a coordinated display of unity, candidates from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) representing four constituencies in Guwahati came together on Monday to file their nomination papers, marking a significant moment in the ongoing election process.
Joint Rally Reflects Alliance Unity
The candidates, backed by enthusiastic supporters, began their day at Khanapara field where party workers gathered in large numbers despite cloudy weather conditions. The rally was led by BJP nominees Pradyut Bordoloi from Dispur, Diplu Ranjan Sharma from New Guwahati, and Vijay Gupta from Central Guwahati, along with Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate Tapan Das from Dimoria.
Standing atop an open vehicle, the candidates moved through the city streets in a spirited procession. Supporters accompanied them, waving party flags and chanting slogans, creating a lively atmosphere that reflected the alliance’s coordinated approach ahead of the elections.
Final Steps Taken Under Official Guidelines
As the procession approached the District Commissioner’s office, election regulations came into effect. The candidates, along with a limited group of supporters, completed the final stretch on foot as required by administrative guidelines. Authorities have put such measures in place to ensure order and compliance during the nomination process.
Chief Minister Filed Nomination Earlier
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, contesting from another constituency within the Kamrup Metropolitan district, had already submitted his nomination papers on Friday. His seat falls under the Guwahati Lok Sabha constituency, completing the NDA’s representation across all five segments in the region.
Internal Differences Within BJP Surface
While the rally projected unity, the BJP has recently experienced internal disagreements, particularly concerning its choice of candidate for the Dispur constituency. Pradyut Bordoloi, who was previously a Congress MP and joined the BJP only last week, was fielded as the party’s nominee.
This decision led to dissatisfaction among some party leaders. Sitting BJP MLA Atul Bora, who was not given a ticket, initially indicated he might contest independently or even support a rival candidate. However, intervention by senior party leadership helped ease tensions, and Bora has since stepped back from his earlier stance.
Resignation Adds New Twist
Adding another layer of complexity, senior BJP leader Jayanta Das, who was considered a strong contender for the Dispur seat, has resigned from the party. Reports suggest he may enter the fray as an independent candidate, which could influence the electoral dynamics in the constituency.
Polling and Counting Dates Announced
The elections for the 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly are scheduled to take place on April 9. The counting of votes will be conducted on May 4, when the results will determine the political direction of the state for the coming term.
As campaigning intensifies, the NDA’s joint nomination event in Guwahati signals an attempt to present a cohesive front, even as internal challenges continue to emerge within party ranks.