Kokrajhar (Assam), 01 September (HS): The Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) and Raisor Dal have released fresh lists of candidates for the upcoming Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections, intensifying the political battle in the region.

BPF’s second list, signed by party general secretary Maneshwar Brahma, names eight candidates, adding to the earlier list of 22. Meanwhile, the Raisor Dal, through its general secretary (administrative) Chinmay Bora, announced four candidates.

The elections to the 40-member BTC council are expected to be closely contested this time, as the ruling BJP has decided to contest solo. The party released its first list of 28 candidates last night, expressing confidence in forming the council independently.

While BJP is eyeing control of BTC, the BPF is pushing to regain its lost ground, and the UPPL, which currently holds power, is determined to secure a second consecutive term. Notably, in the previous election, UPPL and BJP fought together, but this time they are contesting separately, setting the stage for a multi-cornered contest.--------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash