Assam elections 2026: Factionalism in Dima Hasao BJP costs Nandita Gorlosa her nomination

SILCHAR: In a move that underscores simmering factionalism within BJP’s Dima Hasao unit, the party has dropped sitting MLA and Assam minister Nandita Gorlosa from the Haflong constituency, replacing her with first-time assembly aspirant Rupali Langthasa.

Political observers said Gorlosa’s exclusion reflects deep-rooted internal rifts, particularly her reported differences with North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) chief executive member Debolal Gorlosa. The rivalry, sources said, had been brewing for years and had created visible fault lines within the district unit.




Langthasa, currently an executive member in charge of higher education in the NCHAC, is a relatively new face in electoral politics. She first entered the political arena through the council elections, winning from Diyungbra on a BJP ticket. Her proximity to Debolal Gorlosa and growing clout within the council are believed to have bolstered her candidature.

Party insiders said the ticket was also sought by several senior leaders, including Dima Hasao BJP president Dhrity Thaosen, council chairman Mohet Hojai and executive member Niranjan Hojai. However, choosing any of them could have further aggravated factional tensions in the hill district.

Analysts view the decision as a calculated balancing act by the party’s top leadership, particularly CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, to contain internal dissent and maintain organisational equilibrium. Bringing in a relatively new face, they said, helps neutralise competing lobbies without overtly favouring any faction.

The move, analysts added, indicates BJP’s attempt to recalibrate political equations in Dima Hasao and rein in factionalism ahead of a crucial electoral battle.