Raijor Dal president and MLA Akhil Gogoi has urged the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) to hold talks and arrive at a “tactical understanding” ahead of the Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election, warning that a division of votes could affect the opposition’s prospects.
Speaking in Guwahati on the Nagaon bypoll, Gogoi said the constituency had a significant minority electorate and pointed to the possibility of a division of votes between the Congress and AIUDF.
“Nagaon is essentially a constituency with a significant minority population. Last time, the Congress defeated the BJP and won the seat. However, the competition appears much tougher this time because the Congress and the AIUDF are at odds with each other,” Gogoi said.
He said the differences between the two parties could result in the minority vote being divided between them.
“It seems that the minority vote will be split between the Congress and the AIUDF. Therefore, I urge both parties to engage in dialogue and reach a tactical understanding,” the Raijor Dal chief said.
The Nagaon bypoll is scheduled for October 6, with counting on October 9. BJP candidate Debasish Sharma, Congress nominee Sibamoni Bora and AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal are among the key contestants.
Gogoi’s remarks came amid political activity in the constituency, with the Congress and AIUDF contesting the seat separately.
