GUWAHATI – In a major pre-election shift, Mankachar MLA Aminul Islam officially joined the Indian National Congress on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. This move follows his six-year suspension from the AIUDF and a brief, unsuccessful stint with the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) after being denied a party ticket.

Political Shift Highlights:

• Strategic Induction: Islam joined in the presence of senior leaders Jitendra Singh, Bhupesh Baghel, and Gaurav Gogoi, citing a "new journey" for the development of his constituency.
• The AIUDF Exit: Formerly the party's second-in-command, Islam was ousted in March for "anti-party activities" deemed detrimental to the leadership.
• Electoral Impact: His move to Congress is expected to influence key voting blocks in Lower Assam just days before the state goes to the polls.

Assam Election Timeline:

• Polling: Single-phase elections for all 126 seats on April 9, 2026.
• Results: Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, 2026.

The induction strengthens the Congress-led alliance as they challenge the BJP-led NDA government, which is currently seeking a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.