Guwahati, 11th May: In April, incumbent MP Naba Kumar Sarania, also known as Hira Sarania, faced a setback when his nomination papers for the Kokrajhar constituency in Assam were rejected. Undeterred, Sarania redirected his campaign efforts towards Valmiki Nagar in Bihar, demonstrating his determination to contest the Lok Sabha elections.
On May 6, Sarania, a former ULFA commander, filed his nomination papers for Valmiki Nagar, located approximately 300 km northwest of Patna. After scrutiny, his nomination was accepted, clearing the path for his candidacy in the upcoming polls scheduled for May 25. He joins nine other candidates vying for the seat.
Sarania, who previously served as an Independent MP for Kokrajhar twice, had hoped to secure a third term from the constituency, which is reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST). Despite his parliamentary duties, Sarania also established the Gana Suraksha Party (GSP) following his victory in 2019.
However, challenges regarding his tribal status and the authenticity of certificates from two different tribes in previous parliamentary elections hindered Sarania’s candidacy. Despite contesting the rejection of his nomination papers in the Guwahati High Court, he was unable to secure relief.
Responding to concerns about contesting outside his home state, Sarania emphasized that his party, the GSP, is actively participating in the electoral process in Bihar. The GSP is fielding candidates in the Gopalganj and Saran constituencies and is considering additional seats in the seventh phase of elections.
Focusing on Valmiki Nagar, Sarania has launched an intensive campaign, engaging in grassroots outreach efforts and connecting with constituents. The constituency’s proximity to Nepal and Uttar Pradesh presents unique challenges and opportunities, and Sarania is diligently navigating the local landscape to convey his vision for the constituency and connect with voters.
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