Congress Embarks on Statewide Yatra to Galvanize Support in Assam
In a strategic move to rejuvenate its political prospects, the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) launched the "Xomoy Poribortonor Yatra" in Naharkatia, Dibrugarh, on Sunday. Led by APCC president and MP Gaurav Gogoi, this campaign is part of a broader statewide effort to mobilize public support ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Massive Turnout and Traditional Start
The yatra witnessed a significant turnout, with hundreds of supporters and party workers taking to the streets, waving Congress flags and chanting slogans. In adherence to tradition, the event commenced with a visit to the Raidongia Namghar, where Gaurav Gogoi, accompanied by senior leaders Debabrata Saikia, Pradyut Bordoloi, Paban Singh Ghatowar, and Pranati Phukan, sought blessings before addressing the crowd.
Gaurav Gogoi expressed confidence in the party's revival, stating, "People's response has been overwhelming, they have made up their mind. Congress will form the next government in Assam by kicking out BJP." His speech was met with loud cheers, as he assured supporters that if Congress returns to power, all existing welfare schemes will not only continue but be strengthened.
More Than Just Electoral Strategy
Debabrata Saikia, who has been actively participating in the yatra across districts like Golaghat, Sivasagar, and Jorhat, emphasized that this campaign transcends mere electoral calculations. "This yatra is a conversation with the people of the state. We are here to listen, to connect, and to remind them that Congress has always stood beside them," he explained, highlighting the party's focus on grassroots engagement.
Historical Context of Naharkatia Seat
Naharkatia, once a Congress stronghold with victories in four out of nine assembly elections (1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011), saw a shift in 2021 when BJP candidate Taranga Gogoi defeated Pranati Phukan by 14,976 votes. The anti-BJP vote was further split by Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) candidate Lurinjyoti Gogoi, who secured 25,232 votes. Prior to BJP's win, the seat had been held twice by the AGP and twice by the CPI(M), reflecting its volatile political history.
This yatra aims to reclaim such lost territories by reconnecting with voters and addressing their concerns, as Congress strives to turn the tide in its favor for the upcoming polls.
