In a stunning last-minute twist during the Assam Assembly election season, Nandita Garlosa, the former Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports in the BJP-led government, has resigned from the BJP and joined the Congress party.
The switch took place on Sunday evening during a public event in Haflong, with photos shared by the Assam Congress media cell.
Nandita Garlosa was a strong contender for the BJP ticket from the Haflong (ST) constituency but was overlooked in favour of first-time nominee Rupali Langthasa.YouBella Jewellery Celebrity Inspired Gifts Stylish Latest Gold Plated Hand Bracelets Bangles Set for Women and Girls (Gold) (YBBN_92209A)
Angered by the denial, she crossed over to Congress, which is now set to field her from the same seat. Congress had initially announced Nirmal Langthasa as its candidate, but he has graciously stepped aside to extend support to Nandita.
The official announcement from Congress is expected on Monday.The development delivers a significant setback to the BJP in the Dima Hasao district. TVK Steps into Puducherry Arena: Solo Fight Across All 30 Seats..!
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a personal visit to Haflong on Saturday in a desperate bid to convince her to stay, but the effort proved unsuccessful.
Neither Nandita Garlosa nor CM Himanta has commented publicly on the matter yet.With the nomination filing deadline closing on March 23, 2026, this defection adds to the BJP's internal turbulence, as several sitting ministers and MLAs have been denied tickets in favour of fresh faces, triggering widespread discontent. Iran surprises US and Israel, it has attacked US airbase at Diego Gracia islands.
The move bolsters Congress's position in the hill district of Dima Hasao.Assam goes to the polls in a single phase for its 126-member Legislative Assembly on April 9, 2026, with vote counting and results slated for May 4, 2026. This high-profile switch has intensified interest in the election and could influence voter sentiment in the tribal-reserved Haflong seat.Ugadi Gift for Bengaluru: Complete Waiver of Water Bill Interest; DCM D.K. Shivakumar Announces OTS Scheme