Badruddin Ajmal, the chief of the All India United Democratic Front, made a significant statement on Sunday. The former three-time MP from Dhubri Lok Sabha constituency spoke to reporters at Jogighopa in lower Assam's Bongaigaon district. He revealed that his party remains open to forming a pre-poll alliance with the Congress party for the upcoming 2026 Assam Assembly elections.
Congress Delivers Clear Rejection
However, the Congress party has provided an immediate and firm response. Gaurav Gogoi, the Congress state president, made the party's position unmistakably clear. He stated, "I want to reiterate it again that if they think Congress will go for forging an alliance with them for the elections, that is a wrong thought." This direct statement leaves little room for interpretation regarding the grand old party's current stance.
Ajmal Places Ball in Congress's Court
Ajmal emphasized that the responsibility now rests with Congress to initiate any potential collaboration. He argued that opposition unity represents the only practical strategy to challenge the BJP's growing influence in Assam. "There is just one way to stop BJP, and that is unity," Ajmal declared. He added, "If Congress comes forward, we will consider an alliance 100 percent. But since they have publicly ruled it out, we will contest alone." The AIUDF leader confidently asserted that his party continues to enjoy strong public support throughout the state.
Comments on Recent Political Shifts
Ajmal also addressed the recent departure of Rezaul Karim Sarkar from the Congress party. Sarkar, the former president of the All Assam Minorities Students Union, left Congress just three days after joining, citing discomfort with the party leadership. Ajmal commented on the sensitive use of the term 'jihad,' noting it carries deep religious meaning and should be employed responsibly.
He revealed an interesting detail about this political development. Ajmal claimed he advised Sarkar against joining Congress approximately twelve hours before the switch actually happened. He warned that such a move would restrict Sarkar's freedom of expression and damage his political standing. "What I warned has now happened," Ajmal observed. Furthermore, he indicated that the AIUDF would welcome Sarkar back if he decides to return to the party in the future.
Broader Political Context
These remarks emerge during a period of heightened political discussion in Assam. Debates about opposition consolidation have intensified significantly. Various political parties are currently reassessing and adjusting their strategies as they prepare for the crucial 2026 Assembly elections. The dynamic between regional parties and national players continues to evolve, shaping the political landscape of the state.
