Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati
Guwahati, Mar 29: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge intensified the party’s campaign in Assam’s Naoboicha Assembly constituency on Sunday, unveiling a five-point “guarantee” agenda while launching a strong attack on the BJP governments at both the state and central levels.
Campaigning alongside senior leaders including Bhupesh Baghel, Bandhu Tirkey, and Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi, Kharge rallied support for party candidate Dr Joy Prakash Das.
Presenting the Congress vision for Assam, Kharge announced a series of welfare measures, including Rs 9,000 monthly support for women, Rs 50,000 assistance for small businesses, and a Rs 25 lac insurance cover for families. He also promised land rights to 10 lac indigenous residents and a monthly aid of Rs 1,250 per household. Additionally, he assured that justice in the Zubeen Garg case would be delivered within 100 days if the party comes to power.
Taking aim at the BJP, Kharge accused it of failing to safeguard the interests of indigenous communities and prioritising corporate agendas over public welfare. Other Congress leaders echoed concerns over unemployment, rural distress, and land-related issues in the state.
Bandhu Tirkey’s presence was seen as part of the party’s outreach to tribal and marginalised communities, aiming to strengthen grassroots support across regions.
The Naoboicha constituency, located in Lakhimpur district, has emerged as a key battleground in Upper Assam. Following the 2023 delimitation, the seat has been reserved for Scheduled Caste candidates, altering its political dynamics ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Historically, the constituency has witnessed closely contested elections involving multiple parties. In 2021, Congress leader Bharat Chandra Narah won the seat, while in 2016 it was secured by an AIUDF candidate, reflecting shifting voter preferences.
With candidates like Dr Joy Prakash Das (Congress), Achyut Das (AAP), and Basanta Das (AGP) in the fray, the upcoming election is expected to be fiercely contested. The outcome in Naoboicha could play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Upper Assam.