In a move that signals its intent to expand influence in Upper Assam, Raijor Dal has officially fielded Raju Chetry for Margherita in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.
Raijor Dal chief and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi announced the decision on Saturday, speaking to party workers and media at the party headquarters in Guwahati.
The announcement has set the stage for a high-stakes battle in Margherita, a constituency traditionally dominated by the BJP.
Youth Face to Take On BJP
Raju Chetry, in his early thirties, is a rising face in Assam’s regional political landscape.
He has been active in grassroots movements and student politics, gaining recognition for championing issues like unemployment, environmental protection, and indigenous rights.
Akhil Gogoi said the party chose Raju to bring fresh energy and connect with the large youth voter base in Margherita.
He added:
“Raju represents the aspirations of the young people. We believe he will give a tough fight to the BJP.”
Margherita: A BJP Stronghold
Margherita, located in Upper Assam’s Tinsukia district, has been a BJP bastion for several terms.
The area is crucial due to its coal industry, tea estates, and diverse demographic mix, including communities of tea workers, indigenous Assamese, and migrants.
In 2021, BJP’s Bhaskar Sharma retained the seat comfortably, reflecting the party’s deep roots in the region.
However, local issues like unemployment, environmental concerns from coal mining, and price rise have fueled discontent among voters.
Chetry Vows to Fight for People’s Rights
Speaking to reporters after his nomination, Raju Chetry expressed gratitude to Akhil Gogoi and Raijor Dal’s leadership for trusting him.
He pledged to focus on the neglected issues of Margherita’s people and promised to bring real change.
Raju said:
“I have seen how people are suffering despite Margherita being rich in resources. The youth deserve jobs, better infrastructure, and protection of our natural environment.”
Raijor Dal’s Strategy in Upper Assam
The decision to field Raju Chetry for Margherita reflects Raijor Dal’s strategy to strengthen its presence beyond Sivasagar and eastern Assam.
Political analysts believe the party wants to tap into growing dissatisfaction with national parties and present itself as a strong regional alternative.
A political commentator from Guwahati noted:
“Margherita is symbolic. If Raijor Dal can dent BJP’s base here, it sends a signal across Upper Assam.”
Local Issues Could Shape the Contest
Among the key issues Raju Chetry plans to highlight are:
- Lack of job opportunities for local youth despite resource-rich industries.
- Environmental degradation from coal mining activities in the region.
- Poor infrastructure in tea garden areas and worker settlements.
- Rising cost of living and essential commodities.
Raju believes these local grievances could influence voting patterns in 2026.
He said:
“People are tired of empty promises. We will present concrete solutions and stand by the people.”
Akhil Gogoi Targets BJP Policies
Akhil Gogoi, known for his fiery rhetoric, lashed out at the BJP government during the announcement.
He accused the ruling party of neglecting the region’s real issues and using only slogans to win votes.
He said the BJP’s policies have failed to uplift the marginalized, particularly tea garden workers and youth seeking employment.
Akhil added:
“This is a fight to protect Assam’s identity and resources. We are confident Margherita will choose truth over propaganda.”
Explore Assam politics and current developments here.
High-Voltage Contest Expected
Political observers predict a high-voltage contest in Margherita.
With the Congress also planning to contest aggressively, the constituency could see a three-cornered battle.
Analysts say Raijor Dal’s focus on young leadership and local issues may resonate with voters seeking change.
However, the BJP’s strong organizational base and resources remain significant hurdles for new challengers.
Road Ahead for Raijor Dal
For Raijor Dal, Margherita is more than just a constituency—it’s a test of the party’s ability to expand beyond its strongholds.
Akhil Gogoi has hinted at declaring more young candidates across Upper Assam, aiming to build a robust alternative front.
The coming months will be crucial as Raju Chetry begins groundwork, rallies support, and builds momentum.
For voters in Margherita, the 2026 election promises to be one of the most closely watched battles in recent memory.
The decision to field Raju Chetry for Margherita could redefine the political dynamics of Upper Assam and shape the future of regional politics.