The departure of Bhupen Borah, a former state president of the Assam Congress, from the party just before the Assembly elections has created significant political tension. Borah, who has been with the Congress for 32 years, has stated that his decision is about "self-respect" and stems from dissatisfaction with the party's state leadership. This move presents a substantial challenge for the Congress as it tries to strengthen its position and prepare for the upcoming electoral contest.
A Key Figure's Exit
Bhupen Borah resigned from the Indian National Congress on Monday, according to multiple reports. This event is viewed as a major setback for the party in Assam, particularly as the Assembly elections are drawing near. Borah, a former MLA and previously the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), submitted his resignation letter to the central leadership, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge.
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Borah's resignation comes at a crucial time for the Congress in Assam.
The party has been working to consolidate its base and counter political rivals.
His departure is expected to add to the Congress's challenges in the state.
Reasons for Departure
Sources suggest that Borah's decision is linked to his dissatisfaction with the state leadership of the Congress party. He has reportedly felt ignored and that his contributions have not been recognized. Borah himself has cited a "question of self-respect" as a driving factor for his exit.
Allegations of high-handedness and favouritism have been pointed towards Gaurav Gogoi, the current state Congress chief.
Borah reportedly raised concerns about how the party was being managed in Assam with the central leadership.
There were indications that Borah was given a limited role in alliance talks, despite his good relationships with potential coalition partners.
Efforts Towards Alliance Building
For nearly four years as state president, Borah had focused on building a regional alliance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He had been actively working on this since early 2023, engaging with parties such as the Raijor Dol, Asom Jatiyo Parishad, CPI, CPI(M), and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference.
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Borah was recently tasked with taking forward alliance talks for the upcoming elections.
His efforts aimed to create a united front of opposition parties.
Sources indicate that party insider Rokibul Hussain's entry into the alliance discussions may have amplified Borah's concerns.
Future and Speculation
Following his resignation, Borah has indicated that he will consult with his supporters and well-wishers to decide his future political course.
There is speculation that Borah might join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with reports suggesting a possible formal announcement on February 20. However, no official confirmation has been provided.
Borah has removed his Congress affiliation from his social media profile on X (formerly Twitter).
He has stated that he will not make any decisions in secrecy.
Expert and Media Commentary
The media has widely reported this development as a significant political shakeup and a major blow to the Congress in Assam.
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"In a major setback for the Congress ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam, former state unit chief Bhupen Kumar Borah has resigned from the party, sources said on Monday." - Free Press Journal
"Bhupen Kumar Borah Resigns: A Political Shakeup in Assam. In a significant political shift in Assam, Bhupen Kumar Borah, the former state unit chief of Congress, has resigned from his position." - Devdiscourse
Conclusion
Bhupen Borah's resignation from the Assam Congress marks a notable shift in the state's political landscape just before the Assembly elections. His stated reasons center on a perceived lack of self-respect and dissatisfaction with the party's state leadership, particularly concerning alliance strategies. While Borah plans to consult with his supporters, speculation about his potential move to the BJP is circulating. This departure leaves the Congress in Assam facing an organizational challenge as it navigates the critical pre-election period.
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