Congress Alliance Strategy in Assam Derailed by Internal Protests Over Seat-Sharing
In a significant setback for the Congress party's electoral strategy in Assam, internal dissent has erupted among party workers, complicating plans for a united opposition front in the upcoming assembly polls. On Thursday, widespread protests broke out across multiple constituencies as Congress members vehemently opposed the proposed relinquishment of key seats to alliance partners.
Gherao of Gaurav Gogoi in Golaghat Highlights Deep-Seated Resistance
In Golaghat, Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi was gheraoed by agitated party workers who refused to vacate the Sarupathar seat in upper Assam for the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP). The protesters argued that the AJP lacks substantial organizational presence in the area, making such a concession untenable. "We are Congress workers and won't relinquish the Sarupathar seat to AJP at any cost. Even if you decide to relinquish the seat to AJP, it has to be cancelled," one worker asserted at the Golaghat circuit house.
The situation escalated as workers warned of drastic measures, including thousands shaving their heads in protest if the seat is allotted to the AJP. This resistance is particularly poignant as Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) working president Roselina Tirkey has been seeking the ticket from Sarupathar. Protesters claimed that Gaurav Gogoi assured them discussions were ongoing and no final decision had been made, but they remained unconvinced. "In the last four years, we worked hard in Sarupathar and have brought the party to a winning position," one protester emphasized, highlighting the grassroots efforts at stake.
Broader Discontent Spreads Across Constituencies
The unrest is not confined to Sarupathar alone. Congress workers are also resisting proposals to cede the newly-created Binnakandi and Khowang seats to allies. In the minority-dominated Dalgaon constituency, demonstrations occurred outside Gaurav Gogoi's residence on Ajanta Path amid reports that the seat might be given to the Raijor Dal. This reflects a broader pattern of internal friction as the party navigates complex alliance dynamics.
Separately, Raijor Dal ticket hopeful Sherman Ali Ahmed dismissed Congress's internal struggles, stating, "Raijor Dal President will give me ticket from Mandia. I am least bothered what Gaurav Gogoi says." This indifference underscores the challenges in maintaining cohesive opposition partnerships.
Gaurav Gogoi's 'Xomoy Poribortonor' Yatra Continues Amid Turmoil
Amid the protests, the second phase of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee's 'Xomoy Poribortonor' Yatra commenced on Thursday, with Gaurav Gogoi leading the initiative. The yatra covered multiple locations across Golaghat district, including:
- Changkhat
- Dayang
- Usha-Garanga
- Bhelouguri
- Merapani
At each stop, Gaurav engaged with residents, listened to their grievances, and addressed public meetings. In his speeches, he reflected on the party's legacy and critiqued the current BJP government. "Participating in the yatra in Golaghat district reminds me of earlier times. You witnessed 15 years of Congress governance. In 2016, hoping for change, the people of Assam gave BJP an opportunity to form the govt. In 2021, too, they gave BJP another chance. People believed that with BJP in power, both at the Centre and in state, a 'double-engine' govt would resolve their problems. But the reality was the opposite. The issues of local residents remain unresolved," he stated, aiming to rally support despite the internal discord.
This unfolding scenario highlights the delicate balance Congress must strike between forging alliances and placating its own base, with the protests signaling potential fractures that could impact the opposition's unity in the crucial Assam elections.
