Jorhat
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Monday filed his nomination from the Jorhat Assembly constituency, marking his first entry into state-level electoral politics.
Currently serving as Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Gogoi began his day by visiting places of worship across different communities before launching a roadshow from Jorhat Stadium. The rally, which drew a large crowd, concluded at the district commissioner’s office where he submitted his nomination papers.
The Congress is part of a six-party opposition alliance that includes Raijor Dal, Assam Jatiyatabadi Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist), and All Party Hill Leaders Conference, whose supporters also joined the procession.
Speaking to reporters, Gogoi described the upcoming polls as a chance to “cleanse” the state’s political environment, alleging a decline in standards in recent years. He called on citizens to take collective responsibility in restoring the quality of public life.
He also promised that, if voted to power, a Congress government would ensure that women receive benefits of welfare schemes without being required to attend political events. Accusing the BJP of misusing government programmes for political mobilisation, he said such practices undermine dignity and fairness.
Earlier in the day, Gogoi offered prayers at several religious sites, including a gurudwara, temple, namghar, mosque, and church. He also visited his residence to pay tribute to his father, former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.
In the election, he is set to face seasoned BJP leader Hitendranath Goswami, a five-time legislator who has represented the constituency across different terms.
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The deadline for filing nominations is March 23, with scrutiny scheduled for March 24 and withdrawals allowed until March 26. Voting for the 126-member Assam Assembly will take place on April 9, with results to be announced on May 4.
