Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi today said that the party will contest the Assembly elections in alliance with other opposition forces.
Speaking to the media during a Screening Committee meeting held at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi, Gogoi, along with Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly Debabrata Saikia, stated that discussions are ongoing with Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP), Raijor Dal, APHLC, and Left parties, and that the talks have been extremely positive. Debabrata Saikia informed that discussions are underway with president of Raijor Dal Akhil Gogoi regarding seat-sharing in two to three constituencies.
Interacting with journalists, Gaurav Gogoi said that the resignation of former APCC President Bhupen Bora has had no impact whatsoever on the party’s organisational structure. He stated, “Generally, when a leader leaves, many local leaders from that constituency follow him. But I salute the workers of the Ranganadi constituency. On the very day he left, party workers were seated in their office holding a block-level meeting. Presidents of both blocks and mandals of the Ranganadi constituency were present. I was busy the entire day and am not fully aware of developments in Bihpuria. There are reports that many people have joined the Congress in Bihpuria. We will inform you in due course.”
Responding to questions on the alliance, Gogoi clarified that everything is progressing in a positive direction.
Meanwhile, Debabrata Saikia said, “Names are being discussed in the Screening Committee. The final decision will be taken by the Election Committee. No name has been finalised so far. In some constituencies, only one or two names have been proposed.”
Saikia also mentioned that misinformation is being spread in Assam regarding whether an alliance with Raijor Dal has been finalised or not. He said, “There are rumours that discussions with Raijor Dal have ended. I do not know who is spreading such misinformation. I urge everyone not to pay heed to such propaganda. Discussions are ongoing; no final decision has been taken yet. Akhil Gogoi has been in touch regarding several constituencies. Efforts are being made to reach a consensus as far as possible. Talks are also ongoing with leaders of the All Party Hills Leaders Conference. The four-member committee formed for this purpose is holding discussions. Talks are also being held with Asom Jatiya Parishad, CPI, and CPI(M).”
