Guwahati: The Dhubri Lok Sabha constituency stands as one of the focal points of political discourse in Assam, renowned for its vibrant electoral dynamics. With a substantial minority voter base, Dhubri boasts a diverse demographic landscape intertwined with a storied political legacy.
Since 2009, the seat has been firmly held by Badruddin Ajmal, the leader of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), amidst annual electoral showdowns. However, the recent delimitation has reshaped the electoral landscape, presenting fresh challenges. Notably, this year sees senior Congress leader and legislator, Rakibul Hussain, stepping into the fray, adding a new dimension to the contest.
The electoral arena of Dhubri is further enriched by the presence of other significant contenders, including Zabed Islam of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), alongside Ajmal and Hussain.
With a total of 1,353,952 eligible voters, comprising 1,289,451 males and 264,340 females, the constituency reflects a substantial rural majority, accounting for 89% of its geographical expanse, with the remaining 11% classified as urban areas.
Religiously, the constituency embodies a diverse fabric, with Muslims constituting 55%, Hindus 40%, and other religious groups comprising 5% of the population.
Historically, the Dhubri seat was a bastion for the Congress until 2009 when AIUDF’s ascendancy began, maintaining its grip for three consecutive terms. Prior to this, the Congress had enjoyed dominance, clinching victory for at least 10 terms since 1962, with the Praja Socialist Party claiming the inaugural victory in 1952 through Amjad Ali.
The Dhubri Lok Sabha constituency is composed of 11 Assembly constituencies, namely Golakganj, Gauripur, Dhubri, Birsing Jarua, Bilasipara, Mankachar, Jaleshwar, Goalpara East, Srijangram, Mandia, and Chenga. Recent delimitation exercises have expanded the seat’s reach, now spanning across five districts instead of three, reflecting evolving demographic and territorial dynamics.
Recent electoral history underscores the competitiveness of the Dhubri constituency, witnessing victories by candidates from various political affiliations over the years.
Winners of Dhubri Lok Sabha Constituency in 2019
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Badruddin Ajmal secured victory once again, garnering 718,764 votes (42.665%), triumphing over his closest rival, Abu Taher Bepari of the Congress, who received 492,506 votes (29.23%).
Winners of Dhubri Lok Sabha Constituency in 2014
Similarly, in 2014, Ajmal emerged victorious, capturing 592,569 votes (43.27%), while Wazed Ali Choudhury of the Congress secured 362,839 votes (26.49%), reflecting the enduring political significance of the AIUDF in the region.
Past Winners of Dhubri Lok Sabha Constituency
– Amjad Ali: Praja Socialist Party (1952-1962)
– Ghyasuddin Ahmad: Congress (1962-1967)
– Jahan Uddin Ahmed: Praja Socialist Party (1967-1971)
– Moinul Hoque Choudhury: Congress (1971-1977)
– Ahmed Hussain: Congress (1977-1980)
– Nurul Islam: Congress (1980-1984)
– Abdul Hamid: Congress (1984-1991)
– Nurul Islam: Congress (1991-1998)
– Abdul Hamid: Congress (1998-2004)
– Anwar Hussain: Congress (2004-2009)
– Badruddin Ajmal: AIUDF (2014-2019)