Elections – Opposition Parties Announce Candidates Ahead of Assam Polls
Elections – Opposition groups in Assam have begun unveiling their candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for April 9, even as concerns grow over the limited time available for campaigning. On Tuesday, the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) released its first list of nominees, while the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) followed with its second list.
Concerns Over Limited Campaign Period
Leaders of the AJP expressed unease about the short duration allotted for electioneering. Speaking to reporters, party general secretary Jagadish Bhuyan questioned the decision to hold the polls in a single phase, suggesting that the compressed timeline could put smaller parties at a disadvantage.
He argued that regional outfits would struggle to reach voters across multiple constituencies within the narrow window. According to him, the scheduling may unintentionally—or deliberately—benefit larger, well-resourced parties.
Allegations Surrounding Poll Scheduling
Bhuyan also raised doubts about the rationale behind opting for a single-phase election. He pointed out that in previous elections, voting was conducted in multiple stages without major disruptions. He further claimed that starting polling in regions where the ruling party is perceived to be weaker might have influenced voter sentiment elsewhere, and that the current format avoids such a scenario.
While these claims remain political in nature, they underline the growing tension among opposition parties regarding the electoral process.
Alliance Strategy and Seat Sharing
The AJP is part of a broader opposition coalition led by the Congress, which also includes parties such as CPI(M), CPI(ML), and the All Party Hill Leaders’ Conference. As part of alliance negotiations, the AJP has reduced the number of seats it initially intended to contest.
Party president Lurinjyoti Gogoi stated that although the party had originally proposed candidates for 28 constituencies, adjustments were made to maintain unity within the alliance. He indicated that discussions are ongoing for a few additional seats, including potential friendly contests.
Key Candidates in AJP’s First List
The AJP’s initial list names eight candidates, leaving two constituencies yet to be finalised. Gogoi himself will contest from Khowang in Upper Assam, while former Union minister Rajen Gohain has been fielded from Barhampur in Central Assam.
The party hopes that its chosen candidates will strengthen its presence in key regions despite logistical challenges.
AIUDF Expands Candidate Line-Up
Meanwhile, the AIUDF has announced a second batch of 12 candidates, adding to its earlier list. Among the prominent names is party chief Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, who will contest from the Binnakandi constituency in Central Assam.
Ajmal, known for his influence in certain regions, is returning to Assembly elections after a gap of two decades. He previously served as a Member of Parliament but faced a significant defeat in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
Regional Influence and Electoral Stakes
The AIUDF continues to hold sway in several constituencies with a significant Bengali Muslim population, particularly in Lower, Central, and Southern Assam. With the latest announcements, the party aims to consolidate its voter base and remain a key player in the state’s political landscape.
As the deadline for withdrawal of nominations approaches on March 26 and campaigning concludes on April 7, all parties are expected to intensify their outreach efforts. The coming days will be crucial in shaping the final contours of the electoral contest.