Civil Society-Led Opposition Unity Talks Gain Momentum in Assam

In a significant development on Assam’s political front, prominent civil society leaders have initiated a series of discussions with opposition parties to forge a united front against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

The initiative, led by renowned intellectual Dr. Hiren Gohain under the banner of Assam Sanmilita Nagarik Abhibartan, has seen successive meetings with regional political outfits to build a broad-based alliance.

Dr. Gohain, who has emerged as a key figure in catalyzing opposition unity, said, “We are engaging in dialogue with all anti-BJP parties to explore how we can jointly fight against the enemies of the people and of Assam. The people of this state want unity. Without it, defeating the BJP is not possible.”

He further stated that discussions are underway to chart a clear roadmap for achieving this goal and to ensure the unity translates into electoral success and people’s empowerment.

As part of the civil society initiative, a meeting was held on Saturday with leaders of the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP). Civil society representative Paresh Malakar, who participated in the talks, said, “Following the resolutions of the Nagarik Sanmilani, we held discussions with the AJP today. In the coming days, we will also meet with Raijor Dal and other parties. The people are urging for a united opposition—not just symbolic unity, but a grassroots-level movement that can challenge the BJP’s hold.”

AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi reiterated the need for collective action. “We firmly state that there must be a united fight. The BJP’s politics has plunged the people of Assam into a crisis. Citizens want all forces opposed to this regime to come together. Respecting the people's aspirations, we will move forward,” he said.

He also emphasized that all political parties must acknowledge and act upon the people's call for unity. “This is not the time for narrow calculations. Under Dr. Gohain’s guidance, we share a common hope to reclaim democracy and dignity in Assam,” Gogoi added.

Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Ajit Bhuyan dismissed recent speculation about a so-called “Three Gogoi Alliance"—referring to Akhil Gogoi, Lurinjyoti Gogoi, and Gaurav Gogoi—as a political ploy. “This narrative is part of the BJP’s propaganda. It is a calculated distraction with no real relevance. Our focus must remain on building credible unity against the ruling regime,” Bhuyan asserted.

The Assam Sanmilita Nagarik Abhibartan emerged as a powerful voice from the citizenry earlier this year through the Nagarik Sanmilani, which called for a mass movement to defend the democratic and indigenous rights of Assam’s people. The ongoing consultations mark the next phase in what organizers describe as a people-driven effort to reshape the state’s political future.

While major national parties are yet to formally join the initiative, sources suggest that outreach to larger opposition forces—including the Congress—is in the pipeline. The civil society-led movement is expected to intensify its efforts in the coming months as the state gears up for the 2026 Assembly elections.

Also Read: “Even Mild Criticism Now Invites Backlash”: Dr. Hiren Gohain Slams Govt