Assam Jorhat constituency
BJP renominates Hitendra Nath Goswami for Jorhat Assembly in Assam, focusing on development, markets, and urban projects. (File Photo)

Guwahati: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again nominated Hitendra Nath Goswami for the Jorhat Assembly constituency, positioning him as the partyโ€™s key candidate in a seat expected to see a close contest.

This choice follows Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarmaโ€™s earlier remark about fielding a candidate who represents ordinary citizens. Party sources said Goswamiโ€™s modest lifestyle and strong ties with local communities make him a fitting choice. Even after decades in politics, he continues to reside in his family home, projecting accessibility and grounded leadership.

On his renomination, Goswami expressed appreciation to the party and pledged to continue working for Jorhatโ€™s development. He said, โ€œI feel honoured by the partyโ€™s confidence in me again. My priority will be to carry forward the development plans already underway under the Chief Ministerโ€™s guidance.โ€

Sharing his vision for the constituency, he outlined urban planning and the completion of ongoing projects. โ€œIf the people re-elect me, I plan to further improve Jorhatโ€™s city infrastructure. We aim to finish current projects and also start new initiatives over the next five years,โ€ he added.

He also addressed the need for better market facilities. โ€œWe are preparing to build two new vegetable markets. Land surveys and soil tests are in progress because the current arrangements create difficulties for both vendors and residents,โ€ Goswami said.

Commercial infrastructure was another priority. โ€œRedevelopment work at Chowk Bazaar is underway, and we aim to make it fully operational by December. In addition, a new womenโ€™s market near Doss & Co is expected to be ready by the end of this year,โ€ he noted.

Urban beautification efforts were also discussed, with a focus on rejuvenating the Bhogdoi river. โ€œOur objective is to enhance the riverโ€™s management and aesthetics. Itโ€™s a challenging task, but preliminary steps have already started, similar to projects completed at Toklai,โ€ he explained.

He acknowledged the role of the state government in supporting these initiatives. โ€œSome early projects faced criticism, but public response has turned positive. I am thankful for the Chief Ministerโ€™s continued support,โ€ Goswami added.

On the political front, he expressed confidence despite speculation about a high-profile contest with Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi. โ€œElections are ultimately decided by the people. My constant engagement with voters at the grassroots level gives me confidence. I believe I can win this time,โ€ he said.

He further differentiated the upcoming Assembly polls from the previous Lok Sabha elections. โ€œThe context during the Lok Sabha polls was different, with a sentiment favouring younger leadership.โ€