Assam: Alliance backed BJP candidate Tankeshwar Rabha files nomination, eviction pitch takes Centre stage

The BJP-led alliance showcased its electoral strength in Goalpara district of Assam on Monday, March 23 as key candidates filed their nominations amid a massive turnout of supporters, even as controversial remarks on eviction and voting patterns sparked political debate ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Alliance-backed BJP candidate from the Dudhnoi (ST) constituency and Chief Executive Member of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council, Tankeswar Rabha, along with Pabitra Rabha from West Goalpara (ST), formally entered the fray, signalling the start of a high-stakes contest in the district.

Tankeswar Rabha filed his nomination in the presence of several thousand supporters, underlining strong grassroots mobilisation. Assam Minister Ashok Singhal accompanied him during the filing process.

Addressing the media, Singhal expressed confidence in the BJP-led alliance’s prospects, asserting that the coalition is poised to sweep all four Assembly constituencies in Goalpara district. “The people of Goalpara will vote for development and stand with the government,” he said.

However, the political messaging took a sharper turn as Singhal outlined the party’s stance on eviction drives. He stated that, if voted to power, the BJP would undertake eviction drives across nearly 5 lakh bighas of land in Assam, describing the exercise as a key policy priority.

The minister also made a contentious remark regarding voting patterns, stating that the BJP does not seek “Miya” votes, adding that if such votes go to its ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), it would be a matter of individual choice.