Cultural debate sharpens political divide in Assam ahead of 2026 polls

As Assam gears up for the 2026 elections, a cultural debate is intensifying the political rift between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. The BJP is championing the 'Sankar-Madhav' narrative, named after the revered 15th-century saint-reformers Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev, who are credited with shaping Assamese culture and identity. This narrative underscores the party's commitment to preserving traditional Assamese values, which they argue are under threat from external influences. In response, the Congress is promoting a contrasting 'Sankar-Azan' narrative, which seeks to harmonize the teachings of Sankardev with those of Ajan Fakir, a Sufi saint from the same era. Congress's approach aims to highlight Assam's syncretic cultural fabric, emphasizing unity in diversity. The party believes this narrative will resonate with the state's diverse population, fostering communal harmony and countering what they see as divisive politics. This cultural clash is more than a battle of narratives; it reflects deeper ideological divides that could shape voter sentiment. Both parties are leveraging these cultural symbols to bolster their political strategies, hoping to sway the electorate by appealing to Assam's rich historical and cultural legacy. As the election approaches, the effectiveness of these narratives in influencing voter behavior remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: cultural identity will play a pivotal role in the upcoming polls.

— Authored by Next24 Live