Baksa (Assam), February 28 (HS): With the 16th Assam Legislative Assembly elections drawing closer, political activities have begun to intensify across constituencies. The newly formed Tihu Assembly constituency has also witnessed heightened political engagement among aspirants eyeing party nominations.
It may be noted that the 40 No. Tihu Assembly constituency has been reorganized by merging parts of the erstwhile Patacharkuchi, Barama, Dharmapur and Barkhetri constituencies. The reconstitution includes Tihu town along with Jalkhana-Bhatuakhana, Makhivaha and Mathurapur gaon panchayats from the former Patacharkuchi constituency. Additionally, Paschim Nambarbhag, Purba Nambarbhag and Nathkuchi gaon panchayats from Barama constituency, a significant portion of Dharmapur constituency and parts of Barkhetri constituency have been incorporated into the new Tihu seat following delimitation by the Election Commission.
According to sources, several BJP leaders have begun efforts to secure the party ticket. Among those considered aspirants are former minister and BTC member Rekharani Das Bodo, Assam Film Finance and Development Corporation chairman Seemanta Shekhar, Assam Olympic Association assistant secretary Trinayan Barman, BJP spokesperson Devajit Mahanta and state executive member Shailen Kalita.
Following the dissolution of the Dharmapur Assembly constituency, senior cabinet minister and BJP leader Chandramohan Patowary has been actively participating in meetings and public gatherings across areas now falling under the newly formed Tihu constituency, including parts of the former Dharmapur region as well as newly added areas.
On the other hand, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) central general secretary and noted dramatist Dilip Das has also expressed hope of securing his party’s nomination and is reportedly working to strengthen the organizational base. Earlier, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma had indicated that new faces may be given preference in the upcoming elections. However, as the BJP and AGP are alliance partners, the final decision regarding candidature is awaited.
The newly constituted Tihu Assembly constituency currently has 2,04,441 eligible voters, including 1,04,715 male voters, 99,725 female voters and one third-gender voter. As this is a newly formed constituency, many residents believe that a candidate closely associated with Tihu and representing the younger generation may emerge.
Meanwhile, the Congress party has also stepped up its preparations for the seat, with alliance partners staking their claims as well. Bodo political parties are also asserting their interest, especially as a significant number of voters from Bodo areas have been included in the constituency after delimitation. With multiple stakeholders in the fray, the electoral contest in Tihu is expected to be keenly fought.-----------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
