Nandita Garlosa Joins Congress Ahead Of Assam Polls After BJP Denies Ticket

Last Updated:March 23, 2026, 08:31 IST

Garlosa, the sitting MLA from Haflong and a prominent leader in Dima Hasao district, switched to the Congress after being denied a BJP ticket.

Nandita Garlosa joins the Congress in Assam. (ANI)

In a significant political development in Assam, former minister and BJP leader Nandita Garlosa has joined the Congress, raising the possibility of a last-minute change in the party’s candidate for the Haflong (ST) constituency.

She formally joined the Congress on Sunday night in the presence of senior party leaders, including Assam Congress secretary Nirmal Langthasa and others.

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Garlosa, the sitting MLA from Haflong and a prominent leader in Dima Hasao district, switched to the Congress after being denied a BJP ticket. As part of its effort to counter anti-incumbency, the BJP replaced several sitting MLAs, fielding Rupali Langthasa from the seat instead.

Her move comes just a day before the deadline for filing nominations.

The Congress had earlier announced Nirmal Langthasa as its candidate from Haflong in its fifth list released on Sunday. However, after Garlosa’s entry into the party, the leadership is now considering fielding her from the constituency instead.

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According to Congress sources, the party is weighing the option due to Garlosa’s influence and strong organisational network in the hill district. Her induction is being viewed as a potential advantage for the Congress in the key tribal seat.

Political activity in Haflong intensified further after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited the region on Sunday to strengthen the BJP’s campaign. The development is believed to have prompted the Congress to reassess its electoral strategy in the constituency.

Garlosa previously handled important portfolios such as mines, minerals and tribal faith in the BJP-led government. Her departure is being seen as a setback for the party in Dima Hasao.

The Assembly Election in Assam has been scheduled in a single phase, with polling to be held on April 9, 2026, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI). The counting of votes will be held on May 4.

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