Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah has raised serious allegations regarding the candidacy of Nihar Ranjan Das, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the upcoming Dholai by-polls. Borah claims that Das has Bangladeshi origins, prompting calls for clarification from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. In a press conference, Borah cited remarks made by Amiya Kanti Das, a close associate of Chief Minister Sarma, during a public forum. “In public, Amiya Kanti Das mentioned that Dholai’s BJP candidate, Nihar Ranjan Das, is a Bangladeshi,” Borah stated, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding Das’s nomination.
Borah further questioned, “The Chief Minister must explain to the people of Assam why the BJP chose a candidate of purportedly Bangladeshi descent. The state deserves answers on this critical issue.” As the Assembly by-elections approach, the nomination process has attracted a diverse array of candidates. In total, nine candidates from Cachar district have filed their nominations, including prominent figures from established political parties and independent hopefuls.
Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Hazarika, the Returning Officer, confirmed the nominations, highlighting a competitive race that showcases the influence of major political factions in the constituency. The Indian National Congress (INC) has put forward Dhrubajyoti Purkayastha, while the BJP stands behind Nihar Ranjan Das.