Former BJP leader Chakradhar Das to contest as independent from Assam's Bongaigaon, cites family-centric politics

Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Chakradhar Das on March 21, announced that he will contest the 2026 Assam Assembly elections as an independent candidate from the 18-Bongaigaon constituency.

Addressing a press conference, Das said his decision aims to put an end to what he described as “family-centric politics” associated with the camp of Phani Bhushan Choudhury.

He further stated that he has resigned from the BJP after receiving strong support and encouragement from the people of the constituency. “People have faith in my ability to bring development, and they want me to work for the region. Considering all these aspects, I have decided to step down from the BJP and contest the elections as an independent candidate,” Das said.

His announcement adds a new dimension to the electoral contest in Bongaigaon ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly polls.