Suspended Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed Joins Raijor Dal in Assam
In a significant political development in Assam, suspended Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed officially joined the regional party Raijor Dal on Tuesday. This move comes just one day after three-time Congress MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal also defected to the same party, signaling a notable shift in the state's political dynamics.
Ahmed's Political Journey and Future Plans
Sherman Ali Ahmed, a three-time MLA representing the Baghbor constituency, made a public announcement regarding his new political affiliation. He declared his intention to seek nomination from the Mandia constituency in the upcoming assembly elections, marking a strategic change in his electoral base.
Ahmed's political career has been marked by several transitions. Initially elected to the Assam Legislative Assembly in 2011 as a candidate of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), he later faced expulsion from that party. Subsequently, he joined the Indian National Congress and managed to successfully retain the Baghbor seat in both the 2016 and 2021 assembly elections.
Controversies and Suspension from Congress
However, in October 2021, the Congress party suspended Ahmed for what they described as "repeatedly violating party discipline." This disciplinary action followed a controversial incident in September 2021, when Ahmed was arrested for allegedly making provocative remarks concerning an eviction drive in Darrang district. These remarks were widely criticized and contributed to the strained relationship with his former party.
Broader Political Realignment in Assam
The defections are not isolated to Raijor Dal alone. Political circles are abuzz with speculation that Congress MLA Siddique Ahmed, along with AIUDF legislators Nizamuddin Choudhury and Karimuddin Barbhuiya, are preparing to join the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which is a key partner in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
If these anticipated shifts materialize, they could significantly weaken the Congress-AIUDF opposition bloc in Assam. Such moves would likely bolster the prospects of the BJP-led alliance, potentially altering the balance of power in the state legislature and influencing the outcome of future elections.
This series of defections highlights the ongoing political realignment in Assam, where regional parties and national alliances are actively courting legislators to strengthen their positions ahead of crucial electoral battles.
