The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a key regional ally of the BJP in Assam, is preparing for the 2026 state assembly elections amid growing internal discontent and uncertainty within the ruling alliance.
AGP President Atul Bora on Friday addressed the escalating rift, dismissing concerns over factionalism. He called the differences within the party “natural in a democracy.” Bora claimed the AGP remains focused on public service and will emerge stronger ahead of the polls.
Tensions rise inside AGP
The AGP’s recent internal conflicts have become difficult to ignore. Senior leaders are reportedly upset over the party’s diminishing influence in the NDA alliance. Many feel the AGP is merely playing a secondary role to the BJP.
There are also complaints about the leadership’s decision-making process. Several district units have voiced dissatisfaction with the way candidate selections were handled during local body polls. The issue snowballed after a few long-time leaders either resigned or distanced themselves from active party work.
Despite this, Atul Bora urged party members to stay united. “Internal debates are part of a democratic process. What matters is our shared vision for Assam,” he said at a party workers’ meet in Guwahati.
Alliance with BJP under strain
The AGP’s alliance with the BJP, dating back to the 2016 elections, is facing fresh strain. AGP workers on the ground are reportedly unhappy with the seat-sharing arrangement in the past two assembly elections.
Many feel the party has been unable to assert itself on key regional issues like land rights, Assamese identity, and implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.
The BJP’s growing footprint in traditional AGP strongholds has also triggered resentment. Local AGP leaders have accused the BJP of sidelining them, especially during the implementation of flagship schemes.
Yet, Bora maintained that the alliance was still intact. “Allies may have differences, but they must be resolved through dialogue. We are committed to working together for Assam’s future,” he said.
Preparing ground for 2026
As part of its election strategy, the AGP has begun early mobilisation across constituencies where it holds historical sway. The party is focusing on revamping booth-level committees and strengthening its rural outreach.
Bora revealed that the party will soon launch a mass contact programme. It will focus on youth engagement, agrarian issues, and regional autonomy — issues close to the AGP’s traditional vote base.
In the coming months, the party also plans to host public dialogues across the state to assess the public mood. These events are expected to feature senior party leaders, intellectuals, and community influencers.
Role in Assam’s political history
The AGP has a unique place in Assam’s political history. Born from the six-year-long Assam Agitation, it once ruled the state and was seen as a torchbearer of regional aspirations. However, its popularity has dwindled in recent years, especially after joining hands with national parties.
Political observers note that the AGP must reinvent itself if it wants to remain relevant in 2026. “The party cannot afford to be seen as BJP’s junior partner. It has to reclaim its independent identity,” said political analyst Dhrubajyoti Hazarika.
He added that the upcoming polls could be the last major test for the AGP’s political longevity.
Public sentiment divided
On the streets of Guwahati and in towns like Nagaon and Barpeta, public opinion is divided. Some long-time AGP supporters welcome the party’s electoral preparations. Others say the party has lost touch with its core values.
“I was a strong AGP supporter during the 90s. But now, they’re just riding on BJP’s coattails,” said Bhaben Deka, a retired schoolteacher in Nalbari.
Still, younger members within the party are optimistic. They believe AGP can reconnect with the people through grassroots campaigns and by standing firm on regional issues.
The road ahead
With elections less than a year away, the AGP faces both opportunity and risk. It must balance its alliance with the BJP while asserting its own agenda. Internal unity and clarity of vision will be critical if it wants to win back its base.
Atul Bora sounded confident but cautious. “We have learned from our mistakes. The AGP is ready to serve the people again,” he said.
Whether the party can regain its lost ground will depend on how it handles dissent within and negotiations with allies — and how convincingly it reconnects with the people of Assam.
Read more about AGP’s history and ideology on Encyclopaedia Britannica