Nandita Garlosa Joins Congress After BJP Ticket Denial Ahead Of Assam Elections 2026

Dispur: In a significant political development ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, former BJP minister Nandita Garlosa has joined the Congress after being denied a ticket by her party. According to a report by NDTV, the move comes just a day before the deadline for filing nominations, potentially reshaping the electoral contest in the Haflong (ST) constituency. 

Garlosa, who represents Haflong and is considered an influential leader in the Dima Hasao district, switched sides after the BJP replaced her with Rupali Langthasa as its candidate. The decision was part of the party’s broader strategy to counter anti-incumbency by dropping several sitting MLAs. 

Her entry into the Congress has prompted the party to reconsider its candidate selection for the constituency. The Congress had earlier announced Nirmal Langthasa as its nominee from Haflong in its fifth list. However, following Garlosa’s induction, the leadership is now evaluating whether to field her instead, given her local influence and organisational strength. 

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The report further notes that Garlosa formally joined the Congress in the presence of senior party leaders, including Nirmal Langthasa, on Sunday night. Her switch is being viewed as a strategic gain for the Congress in a key tribal seat, where electoral dynamics are evolving rapidly. 

The political situation in Haflong has also intensified with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stepping up the BJP’s campaign in the region. This development is believed to have influenced the Congress’s reassessment of its strategy in the constituency.

Garlosa, who previously handled important portfolios such as mines, minerals, and tribal affairs in the BJP government, leaves behind a notable gap in the party’s leadership in the hill district. 

Her decision underscores the shifting political alignments in Assam as parties gear up for the upcoming elections. 

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