Who is Kanad Purkayastha, the BJP's Candidate for Assam Rajya Sabha Polls?
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Synopsis
The BJP has chosen Kanad Purkayastha as its candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections in Assam, marking a significant political move. With a rich political lineage, Purkayastha's nomination aims to strengthen the party's ties with the Bengali Hindu community in Barak Valley. This election could reshape Assam's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Kanad Purkayastha is the BJP's candidate for Assam's Rajya Sabha elections.
- The elections will take place on June 19.
- Purkayastha is the son of veteran BJP leader Kabindra Purkayastha.
- His nomination aims to strengthen BJP's ties with the Bengali Hindu community.
- The Barak Valley, where Purkayastha is from, is politically significant.
Guwahati, June 7 (NationPress) On Saturday, the BJP revealed that Kanad Purkayastha, the Assam state secretary, will represent the party in the upcoming Rajya Sabha election scheduled for June 19. Arun Singh, the BJP’s National General Secretary, confirmed that the central election committee has officially endorsed Purkayastha's candidacy. Notably, Purkayastha is the sole son of esteemed BJP leader and former Union minister Kabindra Purkayastha.
Two Rajya Sabha seats in Assam will be contested on June 19, with votes being counted on the same day. The deadline for nominations is June 9, while candidates have until June 12 to withdraw.
The ruling BJP had previously stated it would nominate a candidate for one of the available seats, allowing its ally, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), to contest the other.
The two Rajya Sabha positions will become available following the retirement of Mission Ranjan Das (BJP) and Birendra Prasad Baishya (AGP) on June 14.
Assam is allocated seven Rajya Sabha seats. Following the election of Sushmita Dev from the Trinamool Congress to the Upper House from West Bengal, Purkayastha will become the second Rajya Sabha member representing the Barak Valley. Hailing from Silchar, Dev is the daughter of the late Congress leader and former Union Minister Santosh Mohan Dev, and was previously elected to the Lok Sabha from Silchar.
The Barak Valley region, encompassing the districts of Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi, is home to over four million residents, primarily Bengali speakers.
Political analysts suggest that despite the Barak Valley's significant population and political relevance, no leader from this area has previously secured a Rajya Sabha seat on a BJP platform.
Purkayastha’s nomination seeks to address this oversight and aims to bolster the BJP’s appeal among Bengali Hindus in the Barak Valley. The Purkayastha family has played a pivotal role in Assam’s political landscape, with Kabindra Purkayastha’s legacy and Kanad’s active involvement in BJP activities ensuring the family’s ongoing influence in state politics.
Point of View
The nomination of Kanad Purkayastha stands as a strategic move by the BJP to enhance its representation in Assam, particularly within the Barak Valley. This choice reflects the party's intent to strengthen its base among Bengali Hindu voters, which could have lasting implications for Assam's political dynamics. The decision to nominate a candidate from a prominent political family showcases the party's commitment to leveraging regional influence while also addressing the need for representation from diverse communities.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kanad Purkayastha?
Kanad Purkayastha is the Assam state secretary of the BJP and the party's candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections on June 19.
What is the significance of Purkayastha's nomination?
Purkayastha's nomination is significant as it aims to strengthen the BJP's appeal among the Bengali Hindu community in the Barak Valley, a region of political importance.
When are the elections for the Rajya Sabha seats in Assam?
The elections for the two Rajya Sabha seats in Assam are scheduled for June 19, with vote counting also taking place on the same day.
What is the deadline for nominations?
The last date for filing nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections is June 9, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until June 12.
How many Rajya Sabha seats does Assam have?
Assam has a total of seven Rajya Sabha seats.
