Assam opposition unity gains momentum ahead of 2026 elections, says Citizens’ group
Guwahati: The Assam Nagarik Sanmilan asserted on Friday that the opposition camp in Assam has entered an “encouraging and decisive phase” as parties begin laying the groundwork for unity ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Members of the citizen-led collective said they appreciate the attempts of several opposition outfits to collaborate and build a common platform for the upcoming political battle.
Speaking in Guwahati, writer Hiren Gohain, Rajya Sabha MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan, and civic activist Paresh Malakar argued that the next few months will reveal whether Assam can reclaim what they described as a shrinking democratic space under the current regime.
They noted that the opposition’s recent efforts have already injected a sense of possibility into the political landscape.
In a statement, the group called the coming together of opposition forces a “historic step” and said Assam has reached a moment where unity is essential.
They stressed that the ruling party’s alleged attempts to divide Assamese society will fail only when all anti-BJP forces stand together.
The collective accused the BJP of trying to centralise political power and disturb social harmony. “Assam stands at a turning point,” the group stated. “If this unity continues, the ruling party can be challenged effectively.”
Concerns Over the Election System and Democratic Decline
Dr. Hiren Gohain, while addressing the media, voiced serious doubts regarding public confidence in the Election Commission of India.
He said dissatisfaction toward the poll panel is visible across political lines and warned that the issue of alleged vote manipulation can no longer be brushed aside.
Drawing attention to the recent turmoil in Bihar politics, Gohain said the controversy around unexpected voting numbers and accusations involving Rahul Gandhi has deepened public anxiety.
He cautioned that if outcomes contradict public expectations, the Election Commission’s credibility will again face scrutiny.
Gohain also described the political atmosphere as increasingly dangerous. “A dark force is working in the background,” he warned, urging opposition parties, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens to unite and prepare for a sustained democratic struggle.
He added that the Muslim community in Assam has grown wary of AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal, saying, “Ajmal has lost credibility among the people.”
Opposition leader Abdul Manan reinforced the point. “The Muslim electorate has rejected Ajmal, as we saw in the last election,” he asserted, claiming Ajmal now serves as a political tool for the ruling party.
Opposition Unity Efforts Gain Momentum
MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan said the unity initiative is gradually showing results. He accused the BJP of practicing divisive politics and criticised public remarks made by the Chief Minister.
Bhuyan argued that widespread protests, particularly by communities demanding ST status, highlight the depth of dissatisfaction across Assam.
He insisted that a free and fair election would significantly weaken the BJP’s chances. Bhuyan also revealed that the citizens’ group has been interacting with almost all political parties in the state to strengthen coordination.
Concluding their address, members of the Nagarik Sanmilan said Assam needs a united front to ensure democratic renewal. “If we stand together, the political situation can change,” the group declared.