Battle lines drawn in Bhabanipur–Sarbhog: CPI(M) MLA throws open challenge to BJP minister Ranjit Kumar Dass

The political temperature in Assam’s Bhabanipur–Sarbhog constituency has begun to rise well ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, with sitting MLA Manoranjan Talukdar issuing a direct challenge to Minister Ranjit Kumar Dass.

Speaking during his visit to Bajali, Talukdar asserted that if Ranjit Kumar Dass chooses to contest from Bhabanipur–Sarbhog, it would set the stage for a high-voltage contest between “two heavyweights.” He questioned Dass’s political strategy, asking why the minister had shifted from Sarbhog to Bajali during the 2021 Assembly elections.

Talukdar expressed strong confidence about his electoral prospects, claiming that he is determined to secure one lakh votes in the upcoming 2026 polls. He further stated that the CPI(M) has already finalized its candidate and is fully prepared to enter the fray at any moment.

In a sharp political attack, Talukdar alleged that Ranjit Kumar Dass often imitates the Chief Minister’s statements and sarcastically refers to him as “entertainment.” Responding to the remark, Talukdar said the upcoming election would determine who finds entertainment and who faces long-term political setback.

He added that key discussions within the opposition camp are expected to conclude between February 16 and 19, signaling intensified preparations ahead of the polls.

With open challenges and pointed exchanges already surfacing, Bhabanipur–Sarbhog appears poised to witness a fiercely contested battle if both leaders ultimately enter the race.