Guwahati, Feb 17: Three-time Congress MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal from West Goalpara has joined Raijor Dal ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. The announcement was made by party president and founder Akhil Gogoi.

Speaking to ANI, Gogoi said the party welcomed Mandal’s induction and described it as a significant development for Raijor Dal. He also stated that Dulal Chandra Baruah, chief advisor of the All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU), has joined the party, taking the total number of MLAs in Raijor Dal to two.

Gogoi further said that Sherman Ali Ahmed, MLA from Baghbar, is expected to join the party on the following day, which would increase the party’s strength to three MLAs. He termed the development an important moment for the party and said Raijor Dal aims to win at least 15 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections.

After joining the party, Mandal said he was pleased to associate with Akhil Gogoi, describing him as a young and energetic leader. He stated that while he had limited scope in Congress, he sees opportunities in Raijor Dal to work for the party, his community, and the people of Assam.