GUWAHATI — In a major pre-poll development, sitting MLA and former minister Nandita Garlosa has officially joined the Congress after being denied a ticket by the BJP.

Garlosa, who represents the Haflong (ST) constituency and held key portfolios including Mines and Minerals, will now contest the seat on a Congress ticket. The move prompted the Congress’s previous nominee, Nirmal Langthasa, to step aside in the "greater public interest" to accommodate her.

Key Updates:

• Last-Minute Switch: The defection occurred just hours before the nomination deadline following the BJP's decision to field newcomer Rupali Langthasa in her place.
• Strategic Shift: Garlosa’s deep organizational ties in the Dima Hasao district make her a formidable challenger against her former party.
• Polling Dates: Assam goes to the polls on April 9, with vote counting scheduled for May 4.

The transition is seen as a significant blow to the BJP in the hill district, where Garlosa has been a dominant political figure for the past five years.