Veteran Assam MLA Phani Bhusan Choudhury Embarks on Lok Sabha Journey

Phani Bhusan Choudhury, a veteran politician from Assam and a stalwart of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), has marked a significant victory in the Lok Sabha elections from the Barpeta constituency. Serving as the longest-tenured MLA for eight consecutive terms since 1985, Choudhury's win as a member of the ruling alliance underscores his enduring influence in Assam's political landscape. This triumph in the Lok Sabha elections is particularly notable as it comes on his second attempt, having previously contested in 2014 without the support of an alliance and finishing fourth.

Choudhury's victory was achieved with a substantial margin, securing 8,60,113 votes against his nearest rival, Deep Bayan from Congress, who garnered 6,37,762 votes. This win by a margin of 2,22,351 votes highlights the shifting political dynamics in the Barpeta constituency. Notably, Barpeta has undergone significant changes over the years, especially after the recent delimitation exercise which transformed it from a Muslim-dominated seat to one with a Hindu majority.

The demographic shift in Barpeta was a focal point during the election campaign. Choudhury had expressed confidence that the increase in Hindu voters would work in his favor. The constituency is home to nearly 19.8 lakh voters, with over 12 lakh Hindus and around seven lakh Muslims. This change prompted Congress to nominate Deep Bayan, chief of state Seva Dal, sidelining its sitting MP Abdul Khaleque.

At 72 years old, Choudhury is celebrated for his simplicity and unblemished reputation. He has held several key positions during his political career, contributing significantly during both the second AGP government (1996-2001) and the first BJP government (2016-2021) in Assam. Despite AGP's continued partnership with the BJP-led government in Assam, Choudhury has not been allocated a ministerial berth in the current tenure.

The AGP's relationship with BJP has seen its ups and downs, notably breaking off over disagreements on the Citizenship Amendment Bill in January 2019. Choudhury's emotional response to this separation caught public attention when he was seen crying upon his return to Bongaigaon from Guwahati. Nevertheless, AGP reconciled with BJP within two months and joined forces for the Lok Sabha elections in Assam in 2019.

Choudhury's electoral success from Barpeta not only reinforces his political stature but also reflects the evolving electoral preferences in Assam. His journey from an MLA representing Bongaigaon since 1985 to a victorious Lok Sabha candidate exemplifies a seasoned politician's resilience and adaptability amidst changing political currents.