Assam Congress Prepares Third Candidate List Amid Raijor Dal Alliance Tensions
In a significant political development, Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi declared on Monday that the party has finalized a third list of candidates, signaling a potential push to contest up to 100 of the state's 126 assembly seats in the upcoming 2026 elections. This move comes as tensions escalate with ally-aspirant Raijor Dal, with alliance negotiations currently at a standstill.
Alliance Dynamics and Candidate Strategy
The Congress-led five-party alliance has already unveiled candidates for 80 constituencies, with Congress slated to contest 65 seats and its allies taking on the remaining 15. However, with talks with Raijor Dal stalled, Gaurav emphasized that the final decision on seat-sharing and alliance matters rests with the Congress high command. This remark followed a sharp critique from Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi, who accused Congress of preparing for the 2031 election rather than focusing on the imminent 2026 polls.
Gaurav defended the party's approach, stating, "Congress declared two lists of candidates already when AGP and BJP could not publish any list. Some cards need to be kept secret. Our third list is ready, but let's wait for some time. Why should we only keep declaring seats?" He highlighted that the party is strategically projecting a fresh image by fielding numerous new candidates who have never before contested an assembly election, aiming to present a revitalized Congress to the electorate.
Campaign Push in North Assam
Gaurav Gogoi intensified his organizational efforts in North Assam on Monday, campaigning across the Gohpur, Bihpuria, and Ranganadi constituencies. In Gohpur, he was accompanied by former APCC president Ripun Bora and candidate Shankarjyoti Kutum. The Bihpuria campaign saw him alongside candidate Narayan (Ram) Bhuyan, while in Ranganadi, he campaigned with candidate Jayanta Khaound. Senior vice-president Ghana Burhagohain, APCC general secretary Jayprakash Das, and Udit Bhanu Das also participated in these events, underscoring the party's grassroots mobilization.
Infrastructure and Justice Concerns Raised
During his tour, Gaurav addressed public grievances regarding the "poor state of infrastructure at Zubeen Khetra," a site associated with renowned singer Zubeen Garg. He noted that numerous complaints have been lodged about the facility's conditions and pledged that if a Congress government is formed, the necessary work would be completed within three months. Furthermore, he asserted that as long as Himanta Biswa Sarma remains chief minister, Zubeen Garg will not receive justice, linking infrastructure issues to broader governance critiques.
This announcement and campaign activities highlight Congress's assertive stance in Assam's political landscape, even as internal alliance challenges persist. The party's focus on new faces and local issues aims to resonate with voters ahead of the critical 2026 assembly elections.
