“We are very happy to announce that Nandita Gorlosa has joined the Congress party,” a spokesperson for Congress stated on March 23, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the political landscape of Assam.
Nandita Gorlosa, who has served as the MLA for the Haflong (ST) constituency since her election in 2021 on a BJP ticket, has made headlines with her recent defection. During her tenure, she held significant ministerial portfolios, including mines and minerals and tribal faith and culture, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the region.
The backdrop to Gorlosa’s switch is her unexpected exclusion from the BJP’s candidate list for the upcoming assembly elections, where the party has instead nominated Rupali Langthasa for the Haflong seat. This decision has left many in the political arena speculating about the future of Gorlosa’s influence.
In a surprising turn of events, Gorlosa’s defection to Congress comes just before the nomination deadline for the elections, which are scheduled for April 9, 2026. The Congress party has swiftly replaced its original candidate, Nirmal Langthasa, allowing Gorlosa to step in as their nominee for the Haflong constituency.
Himanta Biswa Sarma, a senior BJP leader, remarked, “I had spoken to her and she seemed satisfied,” indicating a level of understanding regarding Gorlosa’s departure from the party.
Gorlosa’s political journey has been marked by her strong support among tribal communities in her constituency, which may play a crucial role in her campaign with Congress. Her ability to connect with these communities has been a cornerstone of her political identity.
The Assam Assembly elections are set to take place on April 9, with votes counted on May 4, 2026. As the political landscape shifts, Gorlosa’s move could significantly impact the dynamics of the election.
As Gorlosa embarks on this new chapter with Congress, her supporters and political analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this transition unfolds in the lead-up to the elections.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this political shift, but Gorlosa’s entry into Congress undoubtedly adds a new layer of complexity to the upcoming electoral battle.
