Congress-Raijor Dal seat-sharing deadlock threatens Assam opposition unity ahead of assembly polls

The race for Assam’s 126 assembly seats is facing a major roadblock. The main opposition alliance, made up of Congress and Akhil Gogoi’s Raijor Dal, is struggling to stay together. They agree on removing the ruling BJP but cannot settle a disagreement over a single seat.

One seat blocking the deal

Talks have been difficult. Raijor Dal first wanted 28 seats, then lowered their demand to 15. Congress has only promised four seats, offering other less-desirable constituencies or "friendly fights".

Raijor Dal’s Bhasco Di Saikia said they are ready to accept 13 seats, but the deal is still unsigned because Congress will not give one final preferred seat. Dispur, Dhemaji, and Duliajan remain major sticking points.

Political activist Yogendra Yadav is mediating last-minute talks. Despite the tension, Congress state chief Gaurav Gogoi said discussions are ongoing and confidential. He remains hopeful of a deal before the April elections.

Campaigning continues

While leaders argue over seats in Guwahati, Congress launched the "Samay Parivartan Yatra" to connect with voters. In Margherita, Gaurav Gogoi accused the state government of replacing indigenous leadership and using financial pressure to win. He specifically mentioned Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, asking for clarity on claims that the CM’s family holds 12,000 bighas of land.

The campaign is also focusing on economic problems. Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi highlighted the struggles of tea garden and coal workers, rising prices, and unemployment. Senior leaders Bandhu Tirkey and Debabrata Saikia joined the campaign, accusing the government of misleading the public.

Candidate lists are not yet final, but the yatra has already suggested possible candidates, including Pratik Bordoloi in Margherita. The opposition’s success will depend on resolving their internal seat-sharing dispute.