BJP chalks out bi-election agenda

GUWAHATI, Oct 13: With Dhekiajuli and South Salmara constituency bi-elections slated to be held on November 8, 2009, the AGP has decided to contest in Dhekiajuli, leaving South Salmara constituency for its alliance partner BJP. This was decided at the coordination committee meet of both the parties at the Assam Secretariat yesterday.

Although, the BJP was not keen on contesting from South Salmara as it is a minority-dominant area and chances of their winning in the constituency are slim, the party has decided to put up a tough fight instead of giving a ‘walk-over’ to its opponents – the AUDF and Congress.

As a matter of fact, 98 per cent of voters in South Salmara constitute of religious minorities. In this regard, the BJP has chalked out a blue print for division of votes and decided to give the party ticket to a minority leader this time.

Talking to The Sentinel, State party vice-president Palit Bora confirmed BJP’s candidature for the South Salmara constituency and said the candidate will be declared within October 16-17 after party president Ramen Deka’s return from New Delhi.

Meanwhile, three minority candidates have sought the party ticket for the bi-elections. These include: BJP Minority Cell district president Jolly Begum and senior leaders Mukesh Rehman and Safiqul Hussain.

The BJP lost to its opponents in the last bi-election at South Salmara and secured less than 2000 votes. It is to be seen if the party succeeds in changing the political scenario at South Salmara in the forthcoming bi-elections. THE SENTINEL