By our reporter | TURA:
The Congress is pinning its hopes on Saleng A Sangma, its solitary MLA from Garo Hills, to challenge Agatha K Sangma, a three-time MP from the NPP, in the Tura Lok Sabha Constituency – a formidable task.
The upcoming parliamentary elections, just two months away, could see Trinamool Congress and Mukul Sangma playing a decisive role in this political equation.
The opposition is contemplating a united front to counter the NPP’s dominance in Garo Hills politics. However, despite this consideration, there have been no talks about seat-sharing or forming a united front between the Congress and TMC in Garo Hills, especially now that Saleng Sangma is the nominated Congress candidate for the Tura seat.
The recent breakdown of the seat-sharing agreement between Trinamool and Congress in West Bengal raises doubts about any potential collaboration in Garo Hills, a development closely observed with satisfaction by the BJP.
It is anticipated that TMC will announce its own candidate soon, with Mukul Sangma and Zenith M Sangma emerging as prominent contenders. TMC holds a strategic advantage over Congress in Garo Hills, boasting four MLAs and almost a dozen MDCs in GHADC, a notable contrast to Congress.
Trinamool leaders and workers in Garo Hills are optimistic about their chances in the numbers game against Agatha and NPP. The party’s influence in crucial constituencies, including Songsak, Ampati, Dadenggre, and Rajabala, bolsters their position.
Mukul Sangma’s enduring influence in key areas with high voting percentages, such as Ampati-Mahendraganj-Rajabala-Phulbari-Dadenggre belt, contributes to TMC’s confidence. However, as both opposition parties gear up against the fortified NPP, armed with 18 MLAs, Independent support from Baghmara, and over a dozen MDCs of GHADC, the risk of a political divide among opposition votes becomes a pressing concern.
Opposition supporters are hoping for political wisdom to prevail as they navigate this critical battle for political supremacy, recognising the scarcity and value of each seat in the INDIA alliance. Yet, with each passing day, the window of opportunity dwindles, intensifying concerns among those wishing for a cohesive opposition front.