Guwahati, March 22: As Assam prepares for another round of Assembly elections, issues of identity, migration and the role of regional parties have once again emerged as dominant themes in the state’s political discourse. The debate over safeguarding Assamese identity, particularly in the context of concerns around illegal migration, continues to shape campaign narratives across constituencies.
Political observers point to a steady decline in the influence of regional parties that once championed “Asomiya jatiyotabad” (Assamese nationalism). Parties such as Asom Gana Parishad, which earlier led governments in the state, are now aligned with larger national formations. Analysts argue that the growing dominance of national parties, coupled with their ability to adopt and amplify regionalist issues, has reduced the independent space for smaller outfits and pushed them towards strategic alliances.
According to political analyst Brojen Deka, concerns over protecting language, culture and identity have consistently influenced electoral politics in Assam, though interpretations have varied across regimes. The perceived threat from illegal migration, particularly involving Bengali-speaking Muslims believed by some to be of Bangladeshi origin, remains a recurring theme in campaigns.
Electoral trends reflect this continuity. Campaign messaging has repeatedly focused on promises to address migration, with slogans such as “jati, mati, bheti” gaining prominence during the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2016. Observers note that similar themes continue to resonate in the current political landscape.
Academic perspectives also highlight the transformation of regional forces. Nava Kumar Mahanta noted that the AGP’s diminished electoral footprint and its current role as a junior ally indicate a significant shift from its earlier dominance. He also raised concerns over evolving political strategies, including changes in candidate selection and outreach, suggesting that the party’s approach has adapted to broader electoral compulsions.
Other regional formations, including Raijor Dal and Assam Jatiya Parishad, have also aligned with national parties such as the Indian National Congress. Analysts believe such alignments, while electorally strategic, blur ideological distinctions and further weaken the independent positioning of regional politics in the state.
Observers trace this shift to earlier developments where national parties increasingly projected themselves as defenders of regional identity, incorporating agendas traditionally associated with regional movements. Initiatives such as the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and sustained political rhetoric around identity have played a role in this transition.
Despite these changes, analysts maintain that regional politics in Assam retains potential for revival. With public sentiment around language, culture and identity remaining strong, there continues to be space for regional voices—provided parties reconnect with their foundational principles and move beyond power-centric strategies.
