One of the biggest issues is its weakened organisation on the ground. After defeats in 2016 and 2021, the party has struggled to rebuild a strong booth level network. In contrast, the BJP has steadily expanded its cadre and strengthened its reach across both urban and rural areas. This gap has made it harder for Congress to convert support into actual votes.
Leadership and cohesion remain concerns. The party has seen internal disagreements and the exit of several senior leaders in recent years, affecting both its consistency and messaging. At the same time, the BJP has projected a more unified leadership under Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Managing alliances is another challenge. Congress has depended on partnerships with parties like AIUDF and regional groups, but seat sharing and vote transfer have not always worked smoothly. In several constituencies, overlapping voter bases have split opposition votes instead of consolidating them.
The BJP’s focus on welfare and governance has also made the contest tougher. Initiatives linked to infrastructure, healthcare, and direct benefit schemes have helped the ruling alliance build support among key sections, especially women and beneficiaries.
At the same time, Congress has struggled to present a clear and consistent counter narrative. While it has raised concerns such as unemployment, rising prices, and economic distress, it has not always been able to offer a cohesive alternative that connects across regions like Upper Assam, Lower Assam, and the Barak Valley.
Electoral arithmetic further complicates the situation. With multiple parties in the fray including BJP, AGP, UPPL, AIUDF, and regional outfits, vote division often benefits the ruling alliance. This makes it harder for Congress to translate its vote share into seats.
Taken together, these factors highlight the uphill task before Congress in Assam, where rebuilding its organisation, managing alliances effectively, and sharpening its political message will be key to improving its prospects.
