Is Bhupen Borah Joining BJP on February 22?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Feb 17 (NationPress) In a significant political shift ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah is poised to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22. This follows a high-profile meeting with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at Borah’s residence in Ghoramara, Guwahati, on Tuesday.
The discussions between Sarma and Borah have sparked considerable political speculation across the state, coming just a day after Borah officially resigned from the Indian National Congress.
Sarma made a personal visit to Borah’s home, where he was greeted by Borah’s family with a traditional ‘aarti’, a gesture interpreted as having profound political significance.
Despite the Congress high command's immediate efforts to persuade Borah to reconsider his resignation, he has requested additional time to reassess his decision.
However, internal party discussions did not succeed in reversing his choice, setting the stage for his formal entry into the BJP later this week.
Previously, Chief Minister Sarma publicly stated that the BJP would welcome Borah and hinted at providing him with a 'safe seat' in the upcoming Assembly elections, should he choose to make the switch.
These comments, along with their meeting, have heightened speculation about a forthcoming political realignment.
Borah’s departure is seen as a significant loss for the Congress in Assam, especially as the party faces internal strife, leadership uncertainty, and organizational issues leading up to the elections.
As a former state Congress chief and a notable political figure, Borah’s decision is expected to considerably influence the party’s electoral landscape.
With his formal induction slated for February 22, this development may indicate a potential shift in Assam’s political dynamics.
Political analysts suggest that Borah’s move could bolster the BJP’s consolidation efforts in the state while further undermining the Congress as the Assembly elections approach, expected later this year.