From Our Special Correspondent
GUWAHATI: The Conrad Sangma-led National People’s Party (NPP) is eyeing wins in at least five Lok Sabha constituencies out of the 14 seats in Assam even as the newly launched state unit is strengthening its membership and connecting with voters with less than a month left for the general elections.
The Assam state unit of NPP was launched here on March 6. The party is now enjoying a presence in four other states of the Northeast apart from leading an alliance government in Meghalaya.
“We are contesting alone and looking at winning at least 10 seats in the Northeast and five in Assam,” NPP state convenor, Dilip Borah told reporters here on Monday.
NPP however is yet to select the candidates for Assam, which goes to three-phase polls on April 11, 18 and 23.
The party’s poll agenda comprises among others of a “United Northeast”, federalism, Look East Policy implementation, connectivity and infrastructure upgrade.
He said that opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Bill would be a major election issue for the party in Assam.
Asked about how the party is connecting with voters in Assam, Borah said, “We are conducting a membership drive across the state with our co-conveners spread across different zones.”
“They have been given a responsibility of five to six districts where they are interacting with people and holding meetings. Besides, our Information Technology cell is also working to connect with people through the digital platform.” The state convener further said that over 5000 members have so far joined the party.
Asked whether NPP president (Conrad Sangma) would campaign for the party, Borah said, “Yes, when the time comes, he will definitely come to Assam and campaign for the party.”
“NPP has charted out a road map for the Northeast and the 17th Lok Sabha election will give the party an opportunity to expand its base in the region and raise the voice and concerns of the people loud and clear.’’
‘‘We urge the people of the region to unite, support and join us in our endeavour,” Sangma had tweeted soon after the Election Commission of India had announced the dates for the polls on Sunday evening.