Atul Bora Discusses AGP's Strategy Ahead of Elections

AGP's Election Campaign Insights

Guwahati, April 4: As the election campaign reaches its crucial phase, Atul Bora finds himself balancing regional sentiments with the NDA's development agenda, amidst rising concerns regarding candidate selections and evolving voter dynamics.

In an open dialogue with a local media outlet, the AGP leader expresses optimism, dismisses critiques, and hints at a strategic shift towards new social alliances.

Interviewer: You've been actively engaging with voters across the State, blending regional pride with a focus on development. How do you perceive the progress of your campaign?

Atul Bora: The NDA is aiming for a third consecutive term, and the feedback has been increasingly positive. This time, the enthusiasm among female voters is remarkable, and we believe their influence will be pivotal in this election. We anticipate securing a significant majority, bolstered by strong youth support as well.

Interviewer: The distribution of AGP tickets has faced scrutiny, with a notable number allocated to candidates from minority communities, including a former AIUDF member. Has AGP compromised its regional focus?

Bora: Absolutely not. AGP has never engaged in religious-based politics. Since our inception in 1985, we have included representatives from minority communities. This has been consistent since 1996. Our candidates are not “non-Indians.” We are a secular party with deep roots in areas like Mankachar and Hailakandi.

Interviewer: By placing a significant portion of your candidates from minority communities, can AGP succeed in this approach?

Bora: We must recognize the evolving political landscape. Historically, both minority and tea garden communities were strongholds for Congress. However, tea garden voters have shifted their allegiance, and minority voters appreciate the NDA's developmental initiatives. The AIUDF's Badruddin Ajmal offered nothing but religious extremism, while Congress failed to support genuine Indian Muslims.

Choosing minority candidates does not equate to abandoning regionalism. Voting patterns are influenced by demographic factors, and candidates are selected accordingly. For instance, in Paka Betbari, we nominated Dr. Tara Prasad Das, a well-regarded two-term MLA. In areas with a majority of minority voters, we have also nominated candidates from those communities.

Interviewer: How many seats does AGP expect to win this election, and what challenges do you foresee?

Bora: With just five days until the elections, it's tough to predict exact numbers. We have put forth our candidates and are optimistic about their performance.

Interviewer: As NDA's regional partner for two terms, has AGP strengthened its grassroots presence and its position within the alliance?

Bora: A party's strength within an alliance is determined by its numbers. AGP has navigated through challenging times in the past. Currently, we are progressing steadily with the NDA towards a third term. We are nurturing our roots across Assam with care, and we are indeed growing stronger.

Interviewer: Why did the BJP nominate Kushal Dowari from Sivasagar when that seat was allocated to AGP under the alliance agreement with Prodip Hazarika as the AGP candidate?

Bora: Sometimes, alliances necessitate tactical decisions, and friendly contests are part of the strategy. This move was made to effectively counter the opposition.

Interviewer: What reasons should voters have to support the NDA?

Bora: The government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma has made promises and delivered on them. Whether it's economic growth, job creation, industrial development, or social security, we have exceeded our commitments. For a prosperous, developed, and secure Assam, voters should choose the NDA.