Sivasagar Twist: BJP Fields Candidate Against Ally AGP
NDA opts for “friendly contest” as BJP, AGP face off alongside Akhil Gogoi
- BJP fields Kushal Dowari in AGP-allocated seat
- NDA terms it a “friendly contest” in Sivasagar
- Himanta Sarma calls move a strategic decision
- Akhil Gogoi adds edge to high-stakes battle
GG News Bureau
Guwahati, 23rd March: In a surprising turn on the final day of nominations, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielded Kushal Dowari from the Sivasagar constituency, despite the seat being earlier allocated to ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP).
The move has led to what leaders are calling a “friendly contest” within the NDA, with AGP already in the fray through its candidate Pradip Hazarika.
Defending the decision, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the move was a strategic and mutually agreed call. “There is a need for a friendly contest in Sivasagar. Both BJP and AGP have taken this decision after discussions,” he stated.
BJP candidate Kushal Dowari also struck a balanced note, saying, “All candidates are competitors, but there will be a friendly contest with AGP’s Pradip Hazarika.”
The development has turned Sivasagar into one of the most closely watched constituencies in the Assam Assembly elections, with alliance dynamics and individual political strength both under scrutiny.
Adding further intensity to the contest is Akhil Gogoi, the sitting MLA and Raijor Dal chief, who is seeking re-election from the seat.
Support for Dowari has also emerged within BJP ranks, with Assam minister Ranoj Pegu publicly backing his candidature.
With BJP, AGP, and Raijor Dal all fielding candidates, Sivasagar is set to witness a high-voltage triangular contest, testing both NDA cohesion and opposition strength in the upcoming polls.
