Guwahati: AIUDF chief and former Lok Sabha MP Maulana Badruddin Ajmal has cautioned Opposition parties in Assam that a lack of unity could result in a “crushing defeat, worse than the setback witnessed in Bihar,” in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters in Guwahati upon his return to the state after several months, Ajmal said the political developments in Bihar should serve as a wake-up call for Opposition forces in Assam.
“Without mincing words, the AIUDF chief said, ‘Bihar’s situation should serve as a wake-up call. If the Opposition parties in Assam do not bury the hatchet and unite, they will be left regretting it for another five years.”
Ajmal reiterated that the AIUDF was prepared to contest the elections independently but remained open to an alliance if approached sincerely. “We are ready to fight solo. If other parties extend genuine cooperation, we are ready to join hands. Unity is essential and without it, the BJP will gain once again,” he said.
Referring to the recent collapse of the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Ajmal criticised the Congress for what he termed a lack of coordination. He said RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav “worked tirelessly,” while alleging that Congress leaders did not match the effort.
“Even the Prime Minister campaigned intensively. But Tejashwi was left alone without adequate support,” he claimed.
His remarks come days after seven Opposition parties in Assam—including the Congress, AJP, Raijor Dal and CPI(M)—revived the Asom Sonmilito Morcha at the Assembly Secretariat on November 12, pledging a united fight against the BJP in 2026. State Congress president Gaurav Gogoi had asserted that the coalition would challenge the policies of the BJP-led government and deliver “relief to the people of Assam.”
Tensions between Congress and AIUDF, however, persist following their split after the 2021 Assembly elections. Ajmal maintained that the AIUDF was not seeking alliances out of compulsion. “We can contest alone if necessary,” he said.
The AIUDF chief also criticised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, urging him to “avoid divisive politics” and adopt a more inclusive approach. “Assam’s Muslims are resilient. We have faced challenges for centuries and will continue to stand strong,” he remarked.
On the proposed bill to ban polygamy in Assam, he said, “With elections approaching, you can expect plenty of such theatrics—more are sure to follow.”
ALSO READ: Centre releases Rs 219.24 cr Finance Commission grants for rural Assam
Ajmal’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions and shifting political strategies in the run-up to the 2026 Assembly elections, as Opposition parties attempt to rebuild trust and consolidate their position against the ruling BJP.
