Political observers predicted that the fight for the seat would mainly be confined among four candidates- three nominated from major political parties and an independent.

The main fight would be between Congress nominee Captain Robin Bordoloi, AGP's Birendra Prashad Baishya, BJP's Ramen Deka and independent candidate Biraj Kumar Sarma. Mr Bordoloi is a former minister and sitting MLA from Dispur constituency.

His father Gopinath Bordoloi was the first Chief Minister of Asom. He commands respect for being one of the noted sports organisers of the state.

Mr Baishya, who is contesting for the first time here, said people would vote for him as he could manage more funds for the development of the constituency from the Centre, being a former Union Minister.

He also assured the voters of providing employment opportunities, resolving water logging, issue of permanent land pattas and removal of transport bottleneck.

Mr Baishya was given the AGP ticket, denying party's vice- president Biraj Kumar Sarma, who is contesting as an independent. Mr Sarma won twice from here and is a veteran leader of the Asom movement.

Mr Sarma has close contact with people from the time of foreigners movement and is trying his best to retain the seat for the third time.

BJP candidate Ramen Deka is not lacking behind either, with party cadres resorting to door-to-door campaigns in a bid to elect their candidate.

The BJP is highlighting the failures of Congress and AGP to muster support.

UNI AB SP/TJP SKM1632