Lurinjyoti Gogoi, president of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), issued a clarion call on Wednesday for a united opposition to counter Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in upcoming 2026 Assam state assembly elections. Speaking in Doboka, Gogoi emphasized importance of solidarity among opposition parties to prevent vote division, which he warned would benefit ruling BJP.
Gogoi’s appeal included major opposition players such as Congress, Raijor Dal, regional parties, and left but notably excluded Badruddin Ajmal’s All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF).
Key Points from Lurinjyoti Gogoi’s Appeal
Aspect | Details |
Call for Unity | Opposition parties must unite against BJP to avoid vote division. |
Exclusion of AIUDF | Badruddin Ajmal’s AIUDF not included in proposed united front. |
Reason for Unity | Divided votes would benefit BJP in 2026 state assembly elections. |
Warning Against Cracks | Cracks in opposition front would play into BJP’s hands. |
Focus on State Interests | Parties urged to prioritize people over personal or party gains. |
Lurinjyoti Gogoi’s Statement
Addressing reporters in Doboka, Gogoi said:
“We want everyone to come together—Congress, Raijor Dal, all regional parties, as well as left. We have to all come together against BJP. If votes get divided then it is BJP’s gain.”
He further stressed that any division within opposition would strengthen BJP’s position, which has already solidified its hold on state and amassed significant resources through alleged collusion with syndicates.
Exclusion of AIUDF
AJP chief was categorical about keeping AIUDF out of equation. He argued that a united opposition, minus Ajmal’s party, was essential for defeating BJP:
“We have to ensure not a single vote gets divided and for that all opposition parties except Badruddin Ajmal’s have to come together. This has to happen before elections for us to defeat BJP.”
This decision reflects Gogoi’s belief that AIUDF’s inclusion might complicate unity of other opposition parties.
Stakes for 2026 Elections
upcoming 2026 Assam state assembly elections are poised to be a critical juncture for state’s political landscape. Gogoi warned that any cracks in opposition alliance could lead to a BJP victory:
“If anyone has any hidden agenda of allowing BJP to win, then that is a different thing. To defeat BJP, we have to agree to remain together from beginning. There can be no second thoughts.”
Prioritizing State Interests Over Party Politics
AJP president urged all opposition parties to set aside their differences and focus on larger interests of Assam and its people:
“We have to set aside personal and party interests and think about state and its people and promise to fight for them.”
He accused BJP of exploiting Assam’s resources for personal gain, claiming:
“BJP has gained a lot of wealth by colluding with syndicates. We have to defeat them.”
Historical Context
BJP has maintained a strong foothold in Assam, winning consecutive assembly elections in 2016 and 2021. party’s strategy of consolidating votes across diverse communities has been a key factor in its success. However, rise of regional forces like AJP and Raijor Dal has introduced a new dimension to Assam’s political dynamics.
Path Forward
For Gogoi’s vision of a united opposition to materialize, significant challenges must be addressed:
- Building Consensus: Aligning diverse parties with differing ideologies and priorities.
- Overcoming Distrust: Ensuring mutual trust among opposition leaders to avoid infighting.
- Strategic Coordination: Allocating constituencies and framing a unified agenda to counter BJP narratives.
Possible Impact of Excluding AIUDF
decision to exclude AIUDF could have implications for opposition’s vote base, especially in constituencies where AIUDF commands significant influence. While this strategy may appeal to some segments of electorate, it risks alienating a portion of minority vote.
Conclusion
Lurinjyoti Gogoi’s call for unity highlights growing urgency among opposition leaders to counter BJP’s dominance in Assam. However, success of this effort hinges on ability of opposition to navigate ideological differences and build a cohesive alliance. With 2026 elections drawing closer, coming months will reveal whether Gogoi’s appeal can translate into a united front capable of challenging BJP’s stronghold in state.
Disclaimer
This article is based on statements made by political leaders and publicly available information. Further developments and official announcements may provide additional insights into evolving political scenario.