New Delhi has buzzed with political activity as the Indian National Congress unveiled its first candidate list for the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly elections. In a strategic move, the party’s Central Election Committee announced names for 42 constituencies, spotlighting Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi as a key contender from the Jorhat seat.
Assam’s 126-seat assembly saw Congress clinch just 29 seats in 2021, fueling the party’s determination for a robust comeback. This initial list covers Brahmaputra Valley, Barak Valley, northern and eastern regions, with deliberate inclusions from SC and ST reserved seats. Women’s representation stands out, underscoring an inclusive approach amid fierce competition.
Prominent names include Abdus Sobahan Ali Sarkar for Gauripur, Markline Marak for Golpara West (ST), Girish Barua for Bongaigaon, and Mahananda Sarkar for Barpeta (SC). Others like Ramen Singh Rabha for Boko-Chaygaon (ST), Nandita Das for Hajo-Sualkuchi (SC), and Satyabrata Kalita for Kamalpur add depth to the roster.
The list extends to Diganta Burman for Barkhetri, Ashok Kumar Sarma for Nalbari, Ratul Patuwari for Tihu, Binanda Kumar Saikia for Sipajhar, and Bubul Das for Jagiroad (SC). Candidates from Rupahihat, Samaguri, Raha (SC), Lumding, and more reflect a blend of experience and fresh faces.
Further announcements feature Raj Kumar Medok for Jonai (ST), Durga Bhumij for Doomdooma, Pratik Bordoloi for Margherita, and Pranjal Ghatowar for Chabua-Lahowal. Dhruv Gogoi from Duliajan and Pranati Phukan from Naharkatia round out eastern picks.
Gaurav Gogoi headlines alongside Utpal Gogoi for Sonari, Ajay Kumar Gogoi for Demow, and others like Debabrata Saikia for Nazira and Indraneel Pegoo for Majuli (ST). Golaghat gets Bitupan Saikia, while Barak Valley sees M. Shanti Kumar Singha for Lakhipur and Abhijit Paul for Silchar.
Party insiders hint at more lists soon, focusing on local pain points like floods, unemployment, tea garden woes, and border security. With youth and veterans in the mix, Congress aims to reclaim ground in this pivotal battleground state.