HT Bureau
DIPHU, April 18: Political temperatures are rising in the 6-Diphu (ST) Parliamentary Constituency as leaders from various parties on Thursday intensified their campaigns ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
MP Horensing Bey, campaigning for BJP candidate Amarsing Tisso, criticised All Party Hills Leaders Conference (APHLC)-supported candidate JI Kathar for allegedly undermining Karbi customary law and constitutional provisions.
During an election rally at 8 Kilo public ground in Lumbajong MAC constituency, Bey emphasised the BJP’s commitment to an Autonomous State, a promise that is also highlighted in the party’s election manifesto. He assured that if elected, Tisso would advocate for the empowerment of the Sixth Schedule districts and support Article 271.
Bey further urged locals to support the BJP and aim to increase the victory margin to over 300,000 votes.
Adding to the BJP’s momentum, Dr David Rongpi, Assam state president of the Janata Dal (United), announced that after discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the JDU would back the BJP. He called on JDU members from the three hill districts—Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, and NC Hills—to support Tisso.
Meanwhile, the Gana Suraksha Parishad (GSP) candidate John Bernard Sangma, who campaigned in West Karbi Anglong, also promised to champion the cause of an Autonomous State. Criticising KAAC’s leadership under Tuliram Ronghang, Sangma claimed it had led to the degradation of the regions.
He was joined by several local leaders and activists during his campaign at Satgaon.
On the other hand, former executive member of KAAC, Sing Teron criticised the BJP government’s policies at a meeting in Duar-Amla. Teron highlighted the adverse impact of high GST rates on farmers and small businesses, signaling a heated contest as parties vie for the crucial constituency.
As the election approaches, the region witnessing a flurry of promises and accusations, with each party attempting to sway voters by addressing local issues and regional aspirations. The coming days are expected to see more such developments as Diphu becomes a focal point of Assam’s political landscape.
