In the upcoming third phase of elections on May 7, Kokrajhar’s constituency, a pivotal tribal reserve area, is ready for a gripping battle between UPPL’s Joyanta Basumatary, backed by the NDA, and BPF’s candidate Kampa Borgoyari.
With 12 candidates vying for the Kokrajhar ST HPC, the spotlight is on the clash between UPPL and BPF, while Congress and Gana Suraksha Party (GSP) are anticipated to secure significant vote shares. Congress’ Garjan Mashahary stands to gain support from religious minorities and traditional Congress supporters wary of the saffron party’s return to power. Backed by GSP, Binita Deka brings the OBoro perspective, aiming to address Bodo issues. Former MP Naba Kumar Sarania’s disqualification due to a fake ST certificate has led GSP to field Deka, continuing their OBoro-centric politics.
In contrast, the NDA, comprising BJP, UPPL, and AGP, has launched extensive campaigns, featuring Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma and other prominent leaders. Their appeal lays with Bengali speakers, tea tribe Adivasis, Gorkhas, and Hindi-speaking demographics. BPF, on the other hand, expects strong support from Muslims and anticipates securing a significant portion of Bodo votes, bolstered by candidate Kampa Borgoyari’s reputation and efficiency.
As political fervour peaks, the primary showdown unfolds between UPPL’s Basumatary, propelled by the NDA, and BPF’s Borgoyari, promising a riveting electoral contest in Kokrajhar.
