Rajdeep Roy in Silchar, Kripanath Mallah in Karimganj: Confirm

Putting an end to all the speculations, BJP has finally decided that it would field Rajdeep Roy in Silchar and Kripanath Mallah in Karimganj constituencies in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Sources in the party tell us that the formal announcement has been delayed due to state mourning after Goa chief minister and former defence minister, Manohar Parrikar passed away. “Both the names along with all other details have been sent to J P Nadda and now the party will make the formal announcement,” informs a senior BJP leader.

Since last few months, “Who will be BJP’s choice in Silchar” has been the talking point. Gautam Roy, Dilip Paul, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Kabindra Purkayastha are the names which surfaced time and again in newspapers, television channels and public discussions.

As per sources in BJP, there was a close contest between, Rajdeep Roy and Kabindra Purkayastha for the candidature in Silchar. “The Cachar BJP was of the opinion that Kabindra Purkayastha contest from Silchar, however, the party’s high command wanted a change,” says a source.

Former union minister and veteran politician, Kabindra Purkayastha spoke to our correspondent a couple of days back. He said, “Who should contest from Silchar is something the party high command will decide. Because of the number of years I spent in active politics, it is obvious that my name would be discussed for candidature. If the party wants me to contest I will, if the party wants someone else to contest, the candidate will have my complete support.”

For now, it is Sushmita Dev VS Rajdeep Roy in Silchar. Who will win the race? We will have to wait till May 23.