Assam polls: Congress names 22 candidates across key constituencies
New Delhi/Guwahati, March 19 The Congress on Thursday released another list of candidates for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, naming 22 nominees across key constituencies in the state.
According to an official statement issued by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), the Central Election Committee has approved candidates for seats spread across Lower Assam, Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Upper Assam and Barak Valley.
Prominent names in the latest list include Manik Ch. Brahma from Kokrajhar (ST), Sapali Marak from Baokhungri, Md Ashraful Islam Sheikh from Parbatjhora and Baby Begum from Dhubri. The party has also fielded Aftab Uddin Mollah from Jaleswar and Pradip Sarkar from Abhayapuri.
In the BTR region, the Congress has nominated Matilal Narzary from Sidli (ST), Jagadish Madahi from Baksa (ST), Rafie Daimary from Tamulpur (ST) and Soren Daimari from Udalguri (ST), signalling its intent to put up a strong fight in tribal-dominated constituencies.
From Upper Assam, candidates include Asif Mohamad Nazar (Laharighat), Durlav Chamua (Nagaon-Batadraba), Sunil Chetry (Nadua), Joyonto Khaund (Rongonadi), Ghana Buragohain (Lakhimpur) and Ananda Narah (Dhakuakhana-ST). Sibanath Chetia has been named from Makum, while Roselina Tirkey will contest from Khumtai.
In the hill and Barak Valley belt, Sanjeeb Teron has been fielded from Howraghat (ST), while Zubair Anam Mazumder will contest from Algapur-Katlicherra.
This is part of the party's ongoing candidate announcement process, following its earlier release of two lists covering several constituencies, with a mix of sitting leaders, new faces, and community representatives.
The Congress has been attempting to strike a balance between experience and fresh leadership while also focusing on social and regional representation.
The Assam Assembly elections are expected to witness a multi-cornered contest, with the Congress aiming to regain lost ground against the ruling BJP-led alliance.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting list. The focus on BTR and tribal constituencies shows a clear strategy. But will it be enough to counter the BJP's well-oiled machinery? The real test will be on the ground.
Representation matters! Seeing names from diverse communities across Assam is a positive step. Hope they focus on development agendas like flood management and job creation, not just identity politics. 🤞
With due respect, Congress's candidate lists often feel reactive rather than visionary. They need a stronger narrative for Assam beyond just being an alternative. What's their concrete plan for the tea gardens and youth?
Following this from abroad. A multi-cornered contest is always healthy for democracy. Hope the election remains focused on issues like infrastructure and economic growth in the region.
The inclusion of women candidates like Baby Begum and Roselina Tirkey is good, but the number is still very low. Parties need to do better on this front. All the best to all candidates! 👍
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