Assam by-elections: Gaurav Gogoi’s reputation on the line

Gaurav Gogoi’s leadership is under scrutiny in Assam’s Bihali assembly by-election, which is seen as a test for his future in Congress. The election, set for November 13, is crucial not only for local politics but also for the 2026 Assam assembly elections. Both ruling BJP and opposition parties are heavily invested in these contests, as the outcome may signal the political direction for the next few years.

In particular, the Bihali seat is a litmus test for Gaurav Gogoi, a Congress MP and son of former CM Tarun Gogoi. Gaurav has been actively campaigning, alongside his supporters, to secure the seat. In the previous Lok Sabha elections, despite strong opposition efforts, Gaurav won after significant struggle. However, his post-election actions have raised eyebrows. After his victory, Gaurav clashed with state Congress president Bhupen Kumar Bora, pushing for his removal from the leadership role.

During the Lok Sabha elections, an opposition grand alliance led by Bhupen Bora faltered, with Congress struggling to manage the alliance, which resulted in limited victories. Despite his role in ensuring Gaurav’s win, Bhupen Bora faced internal opposition from Gaurav’s faction. In this by-election, a strategic decision was made within the alliance to field candidates from Congress in four seats, while CPI(M) would contest on the Bihali seat. Gaurav, however, disagreed with this arrangement and managed to install his own candidate, Jayant Bora, on the Bihali seat.

Gaurav’s actions have made the Bihali seat a key point in his quest for more power in the state. His supporters are already campaigning for him to become Assam’s Chief Minister in 2026. A win for Congress in Bihali could bolster Gaurav’s position within the party, possibly endangering Bhupen Bora’s role. On the other hand, a loss would hinder Gaurav’s future prospects, possibly leaving him in a precarious position in Assam Congress.

Thus, the Bihali by-election holds significant political weight, with Gaurav Gogoi’s credibility and influence on the line.