Bhupesh Baghel Critiques Assam Polls: A Struggle of Genuine vs Imitation Congress
Synopsis
In a recent press briefing, Bhupesh Baghel characterized the Assam elections as a critical showdown between the authentic and imitation Congress. He confidently predicts a pro-Congress wave, urging voters to choose wisely.
Key Takeaways
Bhupesh Baghel labels upcoming elections a fight between genuine and imitation Congress.
Gaurav Gogoi leads the 'real Congress' faction.
Baghel expresses confidence in a pro-Congress sentiment among voters.
Allegations of misgovernance and corruption against the BJP are prominent in Baghel's speech.
The Assam Assembly elections are set for April 9.
Guwahati, March 24 (NationPress) Renowned Congress figure and former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, escalated his criticism against Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, labeling the forthcoming Assembly elections as a contest between the "genuine" and "imitation" Congress.
During a press conference in Guwahati, Baghel asserted that the political showdown in Assam has evolved beyond a traditional BJP versus Congress dynamic, emerging instead as an ideological conflict within the Congress party itself.
He claimed that the "true Congress" is guided by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Gaurav Gogoi, while the "false Congress" is represented by Chief Minister Sarma.
"The citizens of Assam will have to make a choice between authentic Congress principles and those who have forsaken them for political expediency," Baghel remarked, expressing optimism that voters will support the Congress under Gogoi's direction.
The veteran Congress leader highlighted recent political shifts, indicating that numerous individuals previously affiliated with Congress are now aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and contesting in the upcoming elections.
He noted that this trend signifies a deeper ideological split rather than merely a party rivalry.
As the Congress' election observer for Assam, Baghel emphasized a burgeoning pro-Congress sentiment throughout the region.
According to Baghel, the leadership transition within the state unit has fostered a "fresh political climate", with the populace seeking an alternative to the current BJP administration.
He also accused the ruling BJP government of engaging in "misgovernance and intimidation", alleging significant corruption at elevated levels.
In response, the BJP has consistently denied such accusations.
Chief Minister Sarma, who was once a prominent Congress leader in Assam and served as a Minister in various Congress administrations from 2001 to 2015, switched to the BJP in August 2015 and subsequently ascended to the role of Chief Minister.
The election for the 126-member Assam Assembly is set for April 9, with the vote counting scheduled for May 4, according to the Election Commission of India.
Point of View
The current political landscape in Assam presents a unique ideological rift within the Congress party. Bhupesh Baghel's remarks highlight a significant shift in voter dynamics, which could reshape the upcoming elections. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on how these internal divisions will affect the broader electoral outcome.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Bhupesh Baghel say about the Assam elections?
Bhupesh Baghel described the Assam elections as a contest between the 'real' and 'fake' Congress, accusing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of leading the latter.
Who is the APCC President mentioned by Baghel?
The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President mentioned by Baghel is Gaurav Gogoi.
When are the Assam Assembly elections scheduled?
The Assam Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9, with vote counting on May 4.
What accusations did Baghel make against the BJP?
Baghel accused the ruling BJP government of misgovernance, intimidation, and corruption at higher levels.
Why does Baghel believe there is pro-Congress sentiment in Assam?
Baghel believes the leadership change in the Congress has created a new political atmosphere, encouraging voters to seek alternatives to the current BJP government.
