1. April 26 marks Phase 2 of Assam’s Lok Sabha elections, including Karimganj, Silchar, Nagaon, Diphu, and Darrang.
2. Both BJP and Congress see these constituencies as crucial, influencing Assam’s political dynamics.
3. The electoral battle in these areas will likely shape the state’s political trajectory.
Guwahati, April 25: The second phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Assam is set to take place on April 26, covering five significant constituencies: Karimganj, Silchar, Nagaon, Diphu, and Darrang.
These constituencies hold immense importance for both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, shaping the political landscape of the state.
Karimganj:
Karimganj, situated on the border with Bangladesh, boasts a considerable Muslim population, traditionally aligning with the Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF). However, the BJP secured victory in 2019, leveraging support from Hindu and other voters. The constituency has witnessed a shift after recent delimitation, making it a general seat. Challenges for Congress include two of its MLAs campaigning openly for BJP and the Chief Minister’s promises to woo Muslim voters.
Silchar:
Silchar, a key urban center in Barak Valley, is reserved for Scheduled Castes and comprises seven assembly constituencies.
Traditionally a battleground between the BJP and Congress, the seat has leaned towards the BJP recently. With a significant Bengali population, the BJP holds confidence due to perceived Hindu dominance, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) also vies for influence.
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Nowgong:
Nowgong is witnessing intense competition between the BJP and Congress, with a substantial Muslim populace. Historically a BJP stronghold, the party aims to reclaim the seat from Congress. The contest primarily features sitting MP Pradyut Bordoloi of Congress and BJP’s Suresh Bora, a former Congress leader. AIUDF’s candidate adds complexity, potentially affecting Congress’s Muslim vote bank.
Diphu/Autonomous District:
Diphu, reserved for Scheduled Tribes, encompasses three autonomous hill districts. BJP’s victory in 2019 solidified its influence, with key candidates from BJP, Congress, and ASDC vying for support. The constituency is primarily inhabited by Karbi and Dimasa communities, shaping the electoral dynamics.
Darrang-Udalguri:
Darrang-Udalguri constituency, with a diverse mix of communities, currently held by BJP, witnesses a contest between its sitting MP and former Congress MP. The presence of Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) adds further complexity, especially in the crucial Muslim-dominated Dalgaon assembly segment.
The second phase of Lok Sabha elections in Assam presents a diverse array of constituencies, each with its unique dynamics.
With religious demographics, historical voting patterns, and regional identities at play, the electoral battle promises to be fiercely contested, shaping the state’s political trajectory.
Both BJP and Congress face challenges and opportunities, making strategic maneuvering and voter outreach crucial in their quest for victory.
