The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reignited its nationwide membership drive, aiming to boost its ranks after a six-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last drive took place in 2014, but now the party is back in action, with Assam emerging as a key battleground for recruitment.

In Assam, a BJP stronghold, the drive has witnessed an impressive surge in public enthusiasm. As of September 18, a staggering 27,37,362 forms have been completely filled, with overall 29,81,152 individuals expressing their intent to join the party through missed calls. The BJP set a bold target: enrolling 10% of the state’s eligible voters as primary members. While some constituencies have surpassed expectations, others are struggling to keep pace.

Top 10 Performers

Among the assembly constituencies, Jagiroad (SC) leads the charge, with 59,482 membership forms submitted under the leadership of MLA Pijush Hazarika. Close behind is Lakhipur, where Kaushik Rai has mobilized 58,950 new members. Nalbari, led by Jayanta Malla Barua, secured 58,663 sign-ups, securing its place in the top three.

In a remarkable display of support, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s home turf, Jalukbari, ranks fourth with 53,715 forms filled. Despite being a smaller constituency with less AC number, Jalukbari’s numbers reflect immense public enthusiasm, solidifying Sarma’s influence.

The other top-performing constituencies include

-Patharkandi

-Tingkhong

-Rangia

-Hojai

-Silchar

-Sarupathar

Bottom 10 Laggards

While some areas soared, others lagged far behind. The bottom 10 performing constituencies include:

-Mariani

-New Guwahati

-Bajali

-Tangla

-Rongkhang (ST)

-Biswanath

-Hajo-Sualkuchi (SC)

-Bijni

-Jonai (ST)

-Jorhat

One of the most surprising entries in this underperforming list is Ranjeet Kumar Dass, an Assam Cabinet Minister, whose constituency failed to meet the expected numbers.

Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Watchful Eye

According to highly placed sources, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is closely monitoring the membership drive and is expected to hold a review meeting with senior BJP leaders soon. The BJP, which prides itself as one of the largest political parties globally, is scrutinizing the performance of each MLA and local leader in this ambitious recruitment effort.

The BJP’s success in Assam’s membership drive could serve as a barometer for its future electoral fortunes, as the party continues to strengthen its base and dominate the political landscape.