Assam: Sidli by-election campaign ends with intense rallying from major political parties

The campaign for the Sidli by-election came to a peaceful end on Monday, November 11, 2024, with both the ruling and opposition parties intensifying their efforts to sway voters ahead of the poll. On the final day of campaigning, election rallies were held in various parts of the constituency with candidates from different political parties asserting their chances of victory.

The opposition party Bodoland People's Front (BPF) candidate Shuddha Basumatary addressed multiple election meetings in areas including Dholmara, Nadanguri, Lataguri, Joreguri, Kursakarti, and Champanagar. During these rallies, Basumatary emphasized the importance of development and equal rights, urging voters to choose the BPF for a prosperous future. He appealed for support, highlighting the party's commitment to the welfare of the region.

On the other side, the NDA-supported United Peoples' Party Liberal (UPPL) candidate, Nirmal Kumar Brahma, campaigned vigorously across the constituency. Accompanied by several party heavyweights, including ministers U.G. Brahma, Ashok Singhal, and the BTR CEM Promod Boro, Brahma presented himself as the candidate best suited to bring about positive change in the region.

Despite their differing political ideologies, both Basumatary and Brahma expressed confidence in securing victory in the November 13 elections, with each party claiming to have strong support from local voters.

In addition to these two main contenders, Congress candidate Sanjeev Owari is also vying for the Sidli seat, adding to the competition in the constituency. Owari, however, has faced criticism from both the ruling and opposition parties, who have questioned his ability to deliver on key issues facing the region.

The District Commissioner of Chirang Jatin Borah confirmed that all preparations for the by-election have been completed. A total of 273 polling stations have been established, with 33 stations marked as critical due to their sensitivity. The total number of eligible voters in the constituency is 217,183, including 17,894 male voters, 19,283 female voters, and 4 third-gender voters.

A team of 1,224 polling officers has been appointed to ensure the smooth conduct of the election, and strict security measures have been put in place to prevent any untoward incidents. Authorities are hopeful for a peaceful and transparent election process.