ThePrint ThePrintPod: Congress must make ‘sacrifices’ in Assam for Oppn unity in 2026, else will lose seats—TMC’s Sushmita Dev
Aug 25, 2025
A Trinamool Congress MP argues that the Congress party must consider strategic alliances in Assam for the upcoming 2026 elections. She highlights the importance of seat-sharing among opposition parties to effectively challenge the ruling government. The discussion dives into the connections between the political landscapes of West Bengal and Assam, emphasizing how outcomes in one state can significantly impact the other. Additionally, the potential for collaboration amid past internal conflicts within the TMC is examined.
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Push For Seat-Sharing In Assam
- Sushmita Dev urges Congress to accept seat-sharing with Trinamool to strengthen opposition in Assam.
- She warns Congress must make "sacrifices" to accommodate other opposition forces or risk losing seats.
TMC's Limited But Targeted Reach
- TMC is part of the India bloc but not an electoral ally of Congress in West Bengal, limiting automatic cooperation in Assam.
- Dev notes TMC's presence in Assam is marginal and focused on Barak Valley and Lower Assam communities.
Failed 2024 Seat-Sharing Example
- Dev recounts past seat-sharing talks collapsing before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls due to inflexibility from Congress.
- She says TMC offered two northeastern seats in exchange for three to four seats for Congress in West Bengal.