In a fresh setback for the Congress ahead of Assam assembly elections, three-time MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal formally joined the Raijor Dal on Monday.
Abdur Rashid Mandal joined the regional party in the presence of Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi. Dulal Chandra Barua, chief adviser of the Tai Ahom Students’ Union also joined the party today.
Akhil Gogoi welcomed the two new entrant, stating that their inclusion strengthens Raijor Dal’s position against the ruling BJP.
Mandal, who represents the Goalpara West constituency, is known for his vocal stand against injustices and promoting unity among communities.
“I am happy to join the growing Raijor Dal under Gogoi. I am looking forward to strengthen his hands as a simple worker,” Mandal said at the joining function.
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Barua, meanwhile, said he had been socially associated with the newly formed Sivasagar constituency for the past 22 years and joined Raijor Dal to safeguard community interests.
Addressing party workers, Akhil Gogoi claimed that within the coming week, two BJP MLAs from Upper Assam will also join the Raijor Dal. Gogoi further claimed that one AGP MLA and five AIUDF legislators have also been in touch regarding a possible switch, though no decision has been taken.
“The process has been slow as the seat-sharing arrangement with Congress has not yet been finalised,” he said.
Earlier today, former Assam Congress President Bhupen Kumar Borah resigned from the party, which was claimed to have been withdrawn by AICC General Secretary (in-charge of Assam) Jitendra Singh.
The key assembly elections are expected to take place between March and April, with results anticipated for May.
