Dholai’s By-Election Face-Off: BJP’s Nihar Ranjan Das vs. Congress’s Dhrubojyoti Purkayastha

In the wake of the recent Lok Sabha elections, Assam’s political landscape is witnessing a reshuffle. Parimal Suklabaidya, the former MLA of Dholai, emerged victorious in the battle for the Silchar parliamentary seat, leaving a vacuum in the state assembly. By-elections are taking place across five assembly seats in Assam: Dholai, Behali, Bongaigaon, Sidli, and Samaguri. The result of this by election will decide the next MLA of Dholai.

Following Suklabaidya’s elevation to the Lok Sabha, discussions began circulating regarding who would take up the mantle as Dholai’s next MLA. Various contenders emerged, submitting their nominations to the respective parties. Intense intra-party deliberations and clashes over the selection process added to the suspense. Ultimately, BJP and Congress nominated their candidates—Nihar Ranjan Das for BJP, a seasoned party member and lawyer, and Dhrubojyoti Purkayastha for Congress, a figure with deep roots in the constituency’s political history.

Nihar Ranjan Das brings to the table a background in law, having practised as a lawyer at the District Court in Cachar, Silchar. Currently, he holds the chairmanship of the Silchar Sub-divisional SC Development Board and has previously served as the Assistant Manager cum Industrial Relations Officer at Rosekandy Tea Estate. His academic journey took him through Irongmara High School, Gurucharan College, and later Karimganj Law College, where he obtained his LLB. Additionally, Das pursued an MBA from Assam University, equipping him with management expertise. His association with the Bharatiya Janata Party began in 2001, following a switch from the Communist Party of India (Marxist), under the mentorship of Parimal Suklabaidya. With over two decades in BJP, he has grown in stature within the party, serving as a former National Council Member.

On the other hand, Dhrubojyoti Purkayastha comes from a lineage with strong political associations; his father, Late Digendra Chandra Purkayastha, was a two-time MLA from Dholai. Born in Mahdebpur, Dholai in 1967, Dhrubojyoti has followed in his father’s footsteps, climbing the ranks within the Congress party. He was active in student politics during his college days, securing a position as Book Bank Secretary at G.C. College’s Student Union. After his graduation, he held several leadership roles, including Secretary of the District Youth Congress Committee and General Secretary of Narsingpur Block Congress Committee. Today, he serves as the General Secretary of the District Congress Committee in Silchar and holds the presidency of the Assom Anusuchit Jati Parishad’s Silchar district wing. His grassroots involvement in local clubs, like the Juvenile Club at Ranghirkhari and Maniarkhal T.E. Youth Club, has kept him well-connected with the community.

While both candidates share a strong educational background, Das’s legal career contrasts with Purkayastha’s lifelong commitment to political activism. Das’s legal acumen and administrative experience as a development board chairman could offer a more policy-driven approach to governance, potentially appealing to voters seeking a leader who understands the nuances of law and management. In contrast, Purkayastha’s legacy in Congress, combined with his history of youth leadership and community involvement, may resonate with voters who favour a candidate steeped in grassroots movements and who has an emotional connection to Dholai’s political history.

Moreover, Das’s switch to the BJP in 2001 marks a distinct ideological shift, whereas Purkayastha has remained loyal to Congress throughout his political journey, reflecting divergent paths to public service. Purkayastha’s familial political heritage may play a role in swaying traditional Congress supporters, while Das’s long-standing relationship with Suklabaidya and his gradual rise within the BJP signal a continuity of leadership, possibly appealing to those who favoured Suklabaidya’s tenure.

It has been 24 years since Nihar Ranjan Das joined the Bharatiya Janata Party, solidifying his position within the party’s hierarchy. His tenure has seen him transition from an entry-level party member to a key figure in regional politics, demonstrating steadfast growth in the BJP. On the other hand, Dhrubojyoti Purkayastha’s journey with Congress has been equally longstanding, marked by a commitment to the party’s principles and a steady rise through the ranks. His consistent involvement since his youth reflects a career dedicated to serving the people of Dholai through Congress’s platform.

Nihar Ranjan Das’s involvement as the chairman of various development boards has granted him exposure to administrative processes that directly impact the Scheduled Caste community, potentially giving him an edge in addressing the issues concerning these groups. His experience in the tea industry and legal field adds further dimensions to his profile, making him a candidate with diverse skill sets.

Dhrubojyoti Purkayastha, however, carries the advantage of a deep-rooted connection to the constituency’s political fabric, owing to his father’s history as a former MLA. His involvement in local clubs and associations suggests a more community-focused approach, where personal relationships and loyalty might play pivotal roles in garnering support.

Both candidates are making concerted efforts to position themselves as the ideal choice for the upcoming by-election. Their campaigns may be tailored to highlight their respective strengths—Das, with his experience in law, governance, and party loyalty, and Purkayastha, with his familial legacy and commitment to community service. As they strive to connect with the electorate, the question remains: who will resonate more with the masses and secure the coveted seat?

The by-election for Dholai, along with the other four assembly constituencies, will take place on 13 November, with the counting of votes scheduled for 23 November. In light of the upcoming polls, authorities have mandated that employees in various sectors, including public services, remain within the district unless they have prior approved leave. Additionally, a special medical board has been constituted at Silchar Medical College and Hospital to review requests for exemptions. The stage is set for a crucial electoral battle, the outcome of which will shape Dholai’s future leadership.