New Delhi: With Assembly elections approaching in five states, political parties have begun finalising candidates, negotiating alliances and stepping up early campaign preparations as the electoral process enters a crucial phase.
In Assam, parties have intensified candidate announcements and organisational activity ahead of the April 9 polling. The Congress has announced another list of candidates including Bidisha Neog from Jalukbari, Jayanta Borah from Biswanath and Raul Roy from Hailakandi as it attempts to strengthen its position in the state.
The party has also left some seats for alliance partners as part of its electoral understanding. The BJP-led NDA, which had secured a majority in the previous election, is again relying on its alliance structure that includes the Asom Gana Parishad and other regional partners.
The Trinamool Congress is also attempting to expand its presence in Assam by announcing candidates from constituencies such as Katigorah, Sonai, Digboi, Mukum and Udharbond. Political observers say the party is trying to reach out to different social groups, including Bengali-speaking voters, as part of its expansion strategy.
In Tamil Nadu, alliance discussions continue within the ruling DMK-led front. The DMK has offered five seats to the CPI(M) as part of seat-sharing talks. The Left party leadership has indicated it is seeking a slightly higher number but is continuing discussions within the alliance framework.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is reported to have personally participated in discussions, indicating the importance the ruling party is giving to alliance stability before the elections.
In Kerala, Assam and Puducherry, the nomination process is entering its final stage, with the deadline for filing papers ending shortly. Scrutiny of nominations is expected immediately after, followed by the withdrawal window later this month.
Tamil Nadu will see polling on April 23, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Kerala, Assam and Puducherry will go to polls on April 9. Counting of votes for all states is scheduled for May 4.
With the terms of the current Assemblies nearing completion over the next two months, parties are now moving from internal preparations to visible campaign activity.
Across the five regions, the immediate focus appears to be on candidate selection, alliance adjustments and constituency level strengthening before large campaign rallies begin.
The coming weeks are expected to see sharper political messaging as parties attempt to consolidate support and define the narrative ahead of polling.
