Assam’s political landscape became more charged on May 3 as Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi faced a barrage of protests during his visit to Nalbari district. Black flags were raised, and slogans echoed through the streets as Gogoi’s convoy made its way through the region. This unrest comes at a time when political tensions are already high, with accusations being exchanged between opposition leaders and the state government, especially ahead of the ongoing Panchayat elections in Assam.
The protests, organized by supporters of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), were seen as a direct challenge to Gogoi, who has been a prominent voice in Assam’s political scene. Black flags are often used as a symbol of dissent, and in this case, they were an unmistakable sign of the growing discontent within the local population. As Gogoi’s motorcade passed through Nalbari, protesters shouted slogans against the Congress party and its leadership, demanding accountability on several fronts, including development promises and governance.
The situation is a reflection of the larger political battle between the Congress and BJP in Assam, particularly as the state gears up for the Panchayat elections. The BJP-led state government has repeatedly criticized the Congress for failing to address key issues facing the people of Assam, while the opposition party has accused the state government of mismanaging the state’s resources and ignoring public welfare.
The protest in Nalbari coincides with the ongoing political rivalry between Gogoi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Sarma had recently leveled serious allegations against Gogoi, questioning his loyalty to the people of Assam, which added fuel to the already heated political climate. Sarma’s accusations have not gone unnoticed by Gogoi’s supporters, who view them as an attempt to tarnish the reputation of a prominent opposition leader.
As the protestors rallied against Gogoi in Nalbari, the atmosphere in the region became more volatile. Several local leaders from the BJP, alongside youth wings and activists, led the demonstration, criticizing the Congress MP for his alleged failure to address local issues while in office. They also called for transparency and action on the promises made by the Congress during its tenure.
Meanwhile, Gaurav Gogoi continued with his campaign in the region, where he took the opportunity to respond to the allegations leveled by Sarma. The Congress leader refuted claims that his party had neglected the people of Assam. He instead blamed the state government for creating a divide among communities and undermining the democratic fabric of the state through its policies. Gogoi’s speeches, however, did not quiet the protests. The tension was palpable as supporters of both parties clashed with one another, creating a charged atmosphere in the region.
Political analysts suggest that the protests in Nalbari are a preview of what might unfold as Assam moves closer to the 2026 assembly elections. The Panchayat elections are seen as a key test for both the BJP and Congress, with both parties trying to solidify their support base in rural Assam. The protests have become a symbolic battleground, where not only local issues but national political narratives are being debated and contested.
Amidst these protests, the role of the Panchayat elections cannot be overstated. As the local elections unfold, the BJP aims to maintain its grip over Assam, while the Congress seeks to regain ground after a series of setbacks in the state. The rising tensions and protests reflect the intense political polarization and competition between these two major parties in Assam.
As the protests intensified in Nalbari, the issue of governance and accountability took center stage. While Gogoi faces pressure from the ruling party, his supporters are also rallying behind his call for change in Assam’s political dynamics. The protest in Nalbari is more than just a protest against a politician; it is a reflection of the shifting allegiances and the growing discontent among the people of Assam as they look for leaders who can address their concerns and deliver on promises.
The political temperature in Assam is expected to rise even further in the coming months, with more such protests and counter-protests likely to emerge. As the state approaches key elections, the battle between the Congress and BJP will continue to dominate the political discourse, with both parties trying to outmaneuver each other at every turn. The protests in Nalbari are just one chapter in this ongoing political saga.
