EDITORIAL:
ASSAM'S 2024 LOKSABHA ELECTION LANDSCAPE
The political landscape of Assam is gearing up for the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, with the state's 14 seats playing a pivotal role in the national scenario. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured 9 seats in the 2019 elections, is looking to consolidate its position, while the Indian National Congress (INC) aims for a resurgence after a decline in their stronghold over the past elections.
Election Schedule and Phases :
The elections in Assam will unfold in three phases:
- Phase 1 on April 19, covering Kaziranga, Sonitpur, Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat.
- Phase 2 on April 26, including Darrang-Udalguri, Diphu, Karimganj, Silchar, and Nagaon.
- Phase 3 on May 7, for Kokrajhar, Dhubri, Barpeta, and Guwahati.
Key Players and Constituencies
The BJP is determined to improve its tally, leveraging its past performance and governance record. The INC, facing internal challenges, is focusing on constituencies like Nagaon, Karimganj, and Dhubri to regain lost ground. Regional parties and alliances are also expected to influence the election outcomes, particularly in tribal and minority-dominated areas.
Strategic Importance
Assam's strategic importance is underscored by its geographical location, sharing borders with Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. The state's socio-political dynamics, including issues related to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), are likely to be significant factors in the electoral battle.
Issues at the Forefront
Voters in Assam are concerned about various issues, including the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and local matters such as flood management and job creation. Political parties are addressing these concerns in their campaigns, tailoring their messages to resonate with the electorate’s sentiments.
Opinion Polls
According to a mega opinion poll, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is predicted to win 12 out of the 14 seats, leaving the opposition bloc with a challenging path ahead.
Conclusion
As the election dates draw near, all eyes are on Assam, where the political parties are leaving no stone unturned in their campaigns. The results, expected to be declared on June 4, will reveal whether the BJP's strategies have paid off or if the INC and other regional parties have managed to sway the electorate in their favor.
The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Assam are not just a test of political might but also a reflection of the aspirations and concerns of its people, who are poised to make an informed choice that will shape the state's future.
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