Amid ongoing negotiations among opposition parties ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, Raijor Dal chief and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi on Wednesday mounted a sharp attack on the Congress over seat-sharing, asserting that he would not “surrender” to the party.
Interacting with the media, Gogoi said the discussions have revealed serious differences and an absence of mutual respect between the allies. He questioned the sustainability of any alliance formed through unilateral decisions, stating that he would not compromise his principles for political power. “If this is the manner in which seat-sharing is being handled, then it becomes difficult for any alliance to survive,” he said.
Gogoi disclosed that Raijor Dal had initially demanded 15 Assembly seats but was offered only 13 by the Congress. He added that his party was comfortable contesting just four of those seats, rejecting the rest as unacceptable. “When there is no agreement on most of the seats, calling it an alliance makes little sense,” he remarked.
Highlighting Raijor Dal’s strength in key constituencies, Gogoi claimed that his party enjoys a stronger position than the Congress in Dhing and Naoboicha. He asserted that in Naoboicha, in particular, Raijor Dal has a solid base, while the Congress lacks strong candidates.
The Raijor Dal leader further stated that his party has capable and popular candidates in at least 24 constituencies across Upper Assam, but alleged that the Congress is unwilling to acknowledge this reality.
Raising concerns over minority representation, Gogoi said Raijor Dal had sought five minority-dominated seats but was offered only one, which he said reflected the Congress’ approach towards its allies.
He cautioned that alliances cannot function through imposition and stressed the need for equality, transparency and mutual respect. “Any partnership must be based on dignity and political honesty,” Gogoi said.
The remarks come as opposition parties in Assam continue talks to form a united front against the BJP ahead of the Assembly polls.
