Gaurav accepts moral responsibility for Congress dismal performance
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Monday accepted moral responsibility for his party’s drubbing in the Assembly elections, but vowed to remain steadfast in the fight for the rights and dignity of the people.
The Congress registered its worst-ever performance in this northeastern state as the party’s tally was 19 in the 126-member House. The party had won 26 seats five years ago. Gogoi himself lost from Jorhat to incumbent BJP MLA Hitendra Nath Goswami by over 23,000 votes.
“As the president of Assam Pradesh Congress, I accept the moral responsibility of this defeat. But in this fight of ideals, we will always remain steadfast and continue to fight for the rights and dignity of the people. I am ready to perform whatever responsibility is assigned to me by the top party leadership in the future,” he said in a post in Assamese on Facebook.
The BJP-led NDA retained power for the third successive term with a two-thirds majority. Accepting the people’s verdict, Gogoi expressed his gratitude to the voters who reposed their faith in the Opposition candidates. The Congress was part of a six-party opposition bloc in the election, with the Raijor Dal being the only other member which opened its account. The Raijor Dal secured two seats.
“Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all candidates who have won. Hopefully, they will fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the people and work diligently for the sake of the State’s progress, peace and prosperity,” Gogoi said.
He said the Congress will analyse the reasons for its defeat and return with a stronger team to work for the people.
On his loss in Jorhat, Gogoi said, “I humbly accept the verdict of the people of Jorhat.”
Gogoi is a three-time MP, winning from the Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency in the 2024 general elections.
“As per the mandate of the people, we will perform our duties as a responsible opposition party. We will cooperate with the government in its good work and oppose its anti-people policies,” he added.
Extending gratitude to the people from across the state for their affection and blessings in the run-up to the elections, Gogoi also thanked party activists for their diligent work for the opposition alliance.
“Your tireless hard work and sacrifice are the main foundations of our strength. The patience, unity and perseverance you showed in the midst of difficult situations will always be an inspiration and courage to us. Hope to receive your blessings, cooperation and support in the coming days,” Gogoi added.
