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Boycott Calls Spark Tensions in Sidli By-election as Political Campaigns Heat Up

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Tensions rise in Sidli as boycott calls targeting major parties and candidates stir unrest ahead of the by-election. The Koch-Rajbongshi community’s call for abstention adds a new layer of controversy.

Guwahati:s the Sidli by-election approaches, political tensions in Kokrajhar district have reached a boiling point, with growing calls for a boycott of the election. These boycott appeals, especially from the influential Koch-Rajbongshi community, are stirring controversy and raising concerns over the integrity of the democratic process in the region.A series of boycott posters have surfaced across Sidli, urging voters to refrain from supporting candidates from the BJP, United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL), and Asom Gana Parishad (AGP). The posters accuse these parties of neglecting the Koch-Rajbongshi community’s demands and describe them as “fraudulent,” calling for voters to stay away from the polls. The Koch-Rajbongshi community, a key electoral group in the area, is at the center of this call, heightening fears of voter polarization and a possible decline in voter turnout.The boycott movement has sparked reactions from local political leaders, with AGP President and Assam Cabinet Minister Atul Borah dismissing the boycott calls as the work of “miscreants” trying to create unnecessary unrest. “These are isolated acts aimed at disrupting the electoral process,” Borah stated, reassuring the public that the election would proceed smoothly. He also emphasized that law enforcement is actively monitoring the situation to maintain peace and security during the vote.Despite the boycott efforts, the ruling NDA coalition has intensified its campaign, with top leaders rallying behind UPPL candidate Nirmal Kumar Brahma. Atul Borah and Cabinet Minister Jogen Mohan held a rally in Kaliphukuri, urging voters to support Brahma, highlighting his alignment with the region’s development goals. Mohan also praised Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) Chief Pramod Boro for his governance and efforts to foster growth in the region, positioning Brahma as a leader capable of bringing further progress.Mohan, however, did not shy away from criticizing the opposition, particularly the Congress party, accusing them of resorting to “unfair tactics” to influence elections in nearby Samaguri constituency. His remarks underscore the contentious nature of the political environment in Assam as the elections near.BTR Chief Pramod Boro also threw his weight behind the NDA, attending a rally in Kursakati Salakati, where he emphasized the importance of stability and development for the region. Boro urged voters to support the NDA’s candidate, stressing that Brahma’s leadership would help address key local issues and deliver the progress the people of Sidli want.With the election fast approaching, the political atmosphere in Sidli is charged with competing narratives, with the boycott movement adding a layer of complexity to what is already a highly competitive race.

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