UPPL-Led BTC Aims to Resolve Misconceptions Among Non-Bodo Voters in Assam

In a recent interview, Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief Pramod Boro shared insights into the political dynamics of the Bodoland Territorial Region in Assam. Leading the United Peoples Party Liberal (UPPL), an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Boro is addressing concerns among non-Bodo voters regarding perceived discrimination. These concerns have historically influenced election outcomes, notably in Kokrajhar Lok Sabha seat, where a non-Bodo MP was elected in the last two elections.

Boro highlighted the efforts of the BTC administration to bridge gaps with non-Bodo communities, aiming for their support in upcoming elections. The Kokrajhar ST constituency, represented by Naba Kumar Sarania until his disqualification due to a cancelled Scheduled Tribe status, has seen significant political shifts. Sarania's inability to contest this year's elections marks a pivotal moment, with Binita Deka from the Gana Suraksha Party stepping in to represent non-Bodo interests.

The UPPL chief criticized Sarania's tenure, pointing out unfulfilled promises and a lack of effective representation in Parliament. Boro emphasized the transformative changes under UPPL's governance since 2020, including peace initiatives and development projects that have fostered communal harmony and trust among diverse communities.

The signing of the tripartite Bodo Peace Accord in 2020 was a landmark event, ending decades of insurgency and ethnic violence in the region. This accord has not only brought peace but also paved the way for enhanced administrative powers and financial aid for the development of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

With an eye on the Lok Sabha elections, Boro expressed confidence in the support for BJP and its allies, attributing this to the developmental work under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The UPPL is contesting solely in Kokrajhar, while its allies cover other constituencies across Assam.

Boro's strategic focus on Kokrajhar, alongside collaborative efforts with BJP and AGP, aims at securing a comprehensive victory for the ruling alliance. Despite challenges in certain constituencies like Dhubri, Boro remains optimistic about winning a majority of seats in Assam. The final phase of polling on May 7 will be crucial for determining the political landscape in this northeastern state.