Guwahati, 06 March (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday said that a local candidate will be fielded against Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi in the Jorhat constituency, clarifying that Union Minister Pabitra Margherita will not contest from the seat.

Speaking to the media after participating in a program in Dibrugarh on Friday, the Chief Minister stated that the party is likely to nominate a candidate from Jorhat itself to take on Gogoi in the upcoming election. He emphasized that the leadership is keen on giving preference to a local face who understands the issues and aspirations of the people of the constituency.

Sarma also dismissed speculation that Pabitra Margherita would be the BJP’s candidate from Jorhat. According to him, the party leadership is considering several local leaders for the seat and discussions are underway regarding the final selection.

The Chief Minister further expressed confidence that the NDA would put up a strong fight in the constituency. He asserted that the ruling alliance remains focused on strengthening its organisational base and selecting candidates who have strong grassroots connections.

Political observers believe the announcement may intensify the political contest in Jorhat, which has emerged as one of the key constituencies in Assam’s electoral landscape.---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash