Guwahati: The results of the by-elections for five key assembly constituencies in Assam—Behali, Bongaigaon, Dholai, Samaguri, and Sidli—are set to be announced today, November 23. The vote counting began at 8 AM amidst heightened security, marking a critical moment for both the Congress and the BJP-led alliance as they vie for political dominance in the state.
The bypolls were necessitated after these seats became vacant following the Lok Sabha general elections. Over nine lakh voters were registered to cast their votes across 1,078 polling centers. The elections witnessed elaborate security measures, with 15 companies of CAPF and Assam Police ensuring smooth operations. To enhance transparency, 592 polling stations were webcasted, and the state introduced 11 model polling stations alongside 14 women-managed polling centers.
Key Contests Across Constituencies
In Samaguri, Congress’ Tanzil Hussain, son of Dhubri MP Rakibul Hussain, is locked in a tight contest against BJP’s Diplu Ranjan Sarma. This constituency has traditionally been a Congress stronghold, making the result pivotal for the party’s morale.
The battle in Behali is equally intense, with Jayanta Borah, a former BJP leader contesting on a Congress ticket, facing Diganta Ghatowal of the BJP. The CPI(ML) and AAP have also fielded candidates, but the primary fight remains between the Congress and BJP.
Bongaigaon sees a direct face-off between AGP’s Diptimayee Choudhury and Congress’ Brajenjit Singha, while in Dholai, BJP’s Nihar Ranjan Das is challenging Congress’ Dhrubajyoti Purkayastha.
In Sidli, Congress returns to the fray after two decades with Sanjib Warie contesting against UPPL’s Nirmal Kumar Brahma and BPF’s Suddho Kumar Basumatary. The outcome here could significantly impact the dynamics in Assam’s tribal belt.
These bypolls are a litmus test for the Congress, which is seeking to regain its footing in a state assembly dominated by the BJP and its allies. The BJP currently holds 61 seats, while its allies AGP and UPPL control eight and six seats, respectively.
The results are also expected to reflect voter sentiments on key issues such as governance, development, and regional concerns, setting the stage for the next assembly elections. With both parties investing heavily in these contests, the outcomes will not only shape Assam’s political landscape but also provide insights into the evolving strategies of the Congress and BJP in the region.