Guwahati: AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi stepped up his election campaign in Assam on Friday, addressing public meetings in support of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) as political activity increases ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections.
Speaking at campaign meetings, Owaisi appealed to sections of voters, including those belonging to the Miya community, to support AIUDF candidates and oppose the BJP in the upcoming elections. He said communities should use the democratic process to express their concerns through voting.
During his speeches, Owaisi also raised issues relating to eviction drives carried out in parts of Assam and alleged that poor families had been affected. He said voters should respond through the ballot if they feel their concerns have not been addressed.
The AIMIM leader also criticised the Congress, claiming the party had failed to effectively oppose certain government actions affecting vulnerable sections. He said voters should evaluate which political parties have consistently raised issues concerning their welfare.
Owaisi said AIUDF has been vocal on matters relating to minority rights, social welfare and representation, and appealed to voters to support the party in constituencies where it is contesting.
Assam is witnessing increased political campaigning as the election date approaches. Several national leaders from different parties have been visiting the state to address rallies and strengthen organisational networks.
The BJP has also intensified its campaign with visits by senior leaders including Union ministers and national office bearers. Regional parties and the Congress are also conducting meetings and outreach programmes across constituencies.
Political observers say the coming days will see more rallies and roadshows as parties attempt to consolidate their support bases before the campaign period ends.
Electoral background
Polling for all 126 Assembly constituencies in Assam is scheduled to be held on April 9. The election is expected to see contests between the ruling BJP alliance, the Congress and its partners, and regional players including AIUDF.
Election authorities have also stepped up administrative preparations including security arrangements, monitoring of campaign activities and voter awareness programmes.
Officials said standard election procedures including expenditure monitoring, law and order review and voter facilitation measures are being implemented across districts.
Political discussions in Assam are currently centred around governance, development, land issues, welfare schemes and employment opportunities. Different parties are highlighting their governance records while also raising concerns about policies of their rivals.
Observers say that apart from national level narratives, local constituency issues and candidate selection will also play an important role in influencing voter behaviour.
With campaigning entering its final phase, parties are expected to increase their ground presence through door-to-door outreach and local meetings.
With less than a week left for polling, the campaign is now entering a decisive period where parties will attempt to mobilise undecided voters and strengthen booth level management.
The next few days are expected to see intensified campaigning as parties attempt to convert their political messaging into electoral support.
