With less than a month remaining before the Assam Assembly elections, seat-sharing negotiations have emerged as the most decisive political battleground, influencing strategies across both the ruling and Opposition camps. As election preparations intensify, alliances rather than individual parties are shaping the narrative. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is working to maintain unity among its partners, while the Opposition is under mounting pressure to present a credible and united challenge. The success or failure of these negotiations is expected to play a crucial role in determining the political future of the state.
Opposition Races Against Time to Forge United Front
In the Opposition camp, discussions among the Congress, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), and Raijor Dal have picked up momentum under the banner of the Asom Sonmilito Morcha. The primary objective is to consolidate anti-BJP votes by forming a broad alliance capable of challenging the ruling dispensation. However, negotiations—especially those related to seat-sharing—remain sensitive and complex. Over the past few days, Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi has held multiple meetings with key Opposition leaders, including Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi and AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi. These meetings signal a renewed push to resolve differences and finalise a workable alliance framework before it is too late.
Seat-Sharing Talks Reach Final Stage Amid Tensions
Describing the ongoing discussions as “positive,” AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi said most unresolved issues were nearing settlement and clarity was expected within the week. He acknowledged that while a few points still required deliberation, talks had reached the final stage. On the contentious issue of seat-sharing, Lurinjyoti refrained from revealing details but confirmed that AJP had placed its demand and that Congress had shown flexibility. Meanwhile, pressure has mounted following Raijor Dal’s decision to set January 31 as the deadline for finalising seat-sharing. Reports indicate that Congress has offered Raijor Dal three seats—Sivasagar, Sissiborgaon, and Manas—an offer that has reportedly caused dissatisfaction within the regional party. The urgency reflects growing concern that delays could weaken the Opposition’s electoral prospects.
NDA Dismisses Rift Claims as Election Countdown Begins
While the Opposition grapples with internal negotiations, signs of discomfort have also surfaced within the ruling NDA. Reports suggest unrest among workers of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a BJP ally, with demands emerging in several constituencies for the party to contest more seats independently. However, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma dismissed speculation of any rift, asserting that the BJP-AGP alliance remains strong and united. Speaking on the sidelines of an event in Dimoria, Sarma said there was no difference between the two parties and reiterated that the NDA’s collective goal is to return to power. He added that regardless of whether BJP or AGP candidates win, the Chief Minister would be from the BJP. As the electoral countdown accelerates, seat-sharing—across both camps—remains the single most critical factor that could decisively shape Assam’s political outcome.
