NDA to Finalise Assam Seat-Sharing by Mid-March, Says Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on February 24, 2024, that the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state will finalize its seat-sharing arrangement by mid-March. During a press conference in Bokajan, located in the Karbi Anglong district, Sarma indicated that discussions between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its alliance partners are progressing well, with a formal announcement expected soon.

Sarma stated, “We are yet to decide the candidates. I think the names will be finalized by March 15-16. We are in talks with our allies. Everything is moving in the right direction.” He emphasized that the NDA aims to present a united front before the election schedule is announced. This strategic timing is intended to convey stability and clarity ahead of the electoral process.

In a pointed criticism of the proposed opposition coalition, Sarma accused its leaders of inconsistency. He remarked, “They make different comments in the morning, afternoon and night, so no proper conclusion can be drawn.” This statement was part of a broader effort to position the NDA as a coherent and decisive force in contrast to what he described as a disorganized opposition.

Responding to questions about Akhil Gogoi, the leader of Raijor Dal, and his reported ties with the Congress party, Sarma dismissed the significance of these alliances. “There are many persons with Akhil Gogoi. If you keep on trying to find out who is with Akhil Gogoi then who will work for the state and the nation?” he stated, highlighting what he perceives as a lack of focus on state issues among opposition leaders.

Sarma also addressed the recent decision by the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC) to collaborate with the Congress party as part of a broader opposition strategy. He cautioned of potential political repercussions in Karbi Anglong, asserting that the regional outfit has lost public support. “Whoever decides to go with the APHLC will sink. People here do not like the APHLC,” he claimed. Sarma warned that the region could revert to a state of unrest if the APHLC’s political approach continues, stating that “the situation will become the same again, marred by violence and protests.”

The Chief Minister’s statements reflect the BJP-led NDA’s intention to frame the upcoming electoral contest as one between a cohesive alliance focused on development and an opposition perceived as unstable and opportunistic. With the mid-March deadline looming for finalizing seat-sharing and candidate selections, political negotiations are expected to intensify in the weeks ahead.

As the electoral landscape in Assam continues to evolve, the NDA’s strategy appears designed to consolidate its position and project confidence to its supporters and the electorate at large.