Guwahati, Feb 26: Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 26 said the Congress must win at least 24 seats on its own party symbol to qualify for the post of Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Assam Legislative Assembly.
Speaking to reporters, Sarma stated that apart from securing 24 seats independently, the party would also need to win at least six indigenous seats to stake claim to the LoP position. He added that in the current political scenario, achieving that number would be difficult for the Congress.
The Chief Minister further remarked that even if parties such as the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) or the Raijor Dal request the Speaker to grant the LoP post to Congress on the basis of alliance support, it would not be effective. He said the rules are clear that the Congress must secure 24 seats on its own symbol to claim the position.
Sarma cautioned that continued seat-sharing arrangements among opposition parties could push the LoP post further out of their reach. Commenting on possible alliances, he said such tie-ups may occur sooner or later but added that there was nothing to be pleased about.
