As Assam approaches the by-elections on November 13, 2024, a diverse array of candidates emerges, showcasing varied financial backgrounds, educational achievements, and age profiles across five key constituencies.
Guwahati: With Assam gearing up for the by-elections set for November 13, 2024, five important constituencies—Behali, Bongaigaon, Sidli, Dholai, and Samaguri—are showcasing a diverse range of candidates. These elections feature contenders from major political parties, as well as independent candidates, each bringing distinct financial, educational, and demographic characteristics to the race.
Financial Overview: Wealthiest and Most Modest Candidates
Among the candidates, Diplu Ranjan Sarmah from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Samaguri stands out as the wealthiest, boasting total assets of approximately ₹1,37,24,246. Following closely is Brajenjit Singha of the Indian National Congress in Bongaigaon, with assets valued at ₹1,86,12,744. Conversely, independent candidate Parimal Das from Dholai represents the financially modest end of the spectrum, with total assets of only ₹22,000. Other candidates with limited financial resources include Musabbir Ali Ahmed from Samaguri, who lists assets of ₹40,000, and Zehirul Islam with ₹45,000.
Educational Background: A Look at Academic Qualifications
While many candidates possess high school diplomas, only a few have pursued higher education. Abdus Sobur Miah from the Socialist Unity Centre of India in Samaguri stands out as the most highly educated candidate, holding a Master’s degree in Economics. Brajenjit Singha also boasts a Master of Arts degree. Graduate candidates include Sanjib Warie (LLB) from Congress in Sidli and Nurul Amin Chowdhury from the Aam Aadmi Party in Samaguri. Overall, only about 30% of candidates across constituencies have graduated, indicating a relatively low level of higher education among this year’s contenders.
Age Diversity: Youngest and Oldest Candidates
The candidate pool spans a wide age range, from youthful aspirants in their twenties to seasoned politicians in their sixties. Tanzil Hussain, a 26-year-old from Congress in Samaguri, is the youngest candidate, bringing fresh perspectives to the political landscape. In contrast, the oldest candidates are 64-year-olds Dipti Mayee Choudhury of the Asom Gana Parishad in Bongaigaon and Abdus Sobur Miah in Samaguri, embodying extensive political experience. This mix of ages allows voters to choose between the wisdom of experience and the energy of youth, potentially influencing election outcomes.
Gender Representation: A Limited Yet Notable Presence
Among the total candidates, only four are women, underscoring an ongoing gender imbalance in Assam’s political scene. Notable female contenders include Dipti Mayee Choudhury from AGP in Bongaigaon and Fatema Khatun in Samaguri. While their numbers are limited, their participation signifies a gradual shift toward inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated arena.
Constituency Breakdown: Key Candidates
Behali: Key candidates include Congress’s Jayanta Borah, with assets of ₹68,09,436.50, and Diganta Ghatowal from the BJP, who has assets of ₹14,56,658. The youngest candidate in this constituency is 41, while the oldest is 47, creating a middle-aged candidate pool. Ananta Gogoi from the Aam Aadmi Party holds assets worth ₹45,63,000, highlighting financial diversity.Bongaigaon: This constituency features some of the oldest candidates, including 64-year-old Dipti Mayee Choudhury and 61-year-old Brajenjit Singha. However, younger candidates like Mritunjay Rabha, aged 33, also bring diversity. Financially, Bongaigaon includes affluent contenders, with Brajenjit Singha leading the way.Sidli: Marked by experienced candidates, Sidli features affluent individuals like Suddho Kumar Basumatary and Nirmal Kumar Brahma, both 60 and educated graduates.Dholai: Predominantly comprised of independent candidates, Dholai’s lineup includes Dhiraj Das and Dilip Kumar Dhubi, with varying qualifications. Parimal Das, although older at 57, reflects a more modest financial background.Samaguri: This constituency showcases a broad age range and financial diversity. Asha Begum, an independent candidate, stands out as one of the wealthiest women, while Tanzil Hussain brings youthful energy at just 26.As voters in Behali, Bongaigaon, Sidli, Dholai, and Samaguri prepare to make their choices, these insights provide a comprehensive look at the candidates vying for their support, ensuring informed decision-making for Assam’s political future.
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