In a shocking turn of events, the Congress party registered its worst-ever performance in Assam, securing only 19 seats out of the 126-seat Assembly in the recently concluded elections. The defeat comes as a major blow to the party, which had been in power in the state for 15 years before facing a series of setbacks.
Following the dismal performance, All India Congress Committee general secretary in charge of Assam, Jitendra Singh, tendered his resignation from the post, citing that he takes full responsibility for the party's defeat. In a heartfelt letter addressed to Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge, Singh expressed his disappointment over the outcome and emphasized the need for fresh leadership.
The Congress party's decline in Assam can be traced back to 2015 when the BJP, led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, gained momentum in the state. Sarma, a former Congress leader, joined the BJP, leading to a significant shift in the political landscape. In 2026, the saffron party emerged victorious in Assam for the first time, signaling a major setback for the Congress.
The defeat in Assam not only saw the Congress party losing seats but also witnessed prominent leaders like state party president Gaurav Gogoi and Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia facing defeat in the elections. The party now looks towards fresh leadership and renewed direction to navigate through this challenging period.
Sukrita Baruah, a Principal Correspondent for The Indian Express based in Guwahati, offers expert insights into the intricate ethnic diversity, geopolitical significance, and unique developmental challenges of India's North East region. With a deep understanding of the region's dynamics, Baruah's coverage sheds light on regional conflicts, border geopolitics, governance, and specialized education issues.
With a rich background in education reporting and policy analysis, Baruah's expertise provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities that shape the North East region. Stay updated with the latest developments by following The Indian Express on Instagram.