Will Bhupen Borah’s Exit Undermine Congress in Assam?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Feb 17 (NationPress) The Congress party in Assam is poised to encounter a substantial political and emotional blow following the exit of senior figure and former APCC president Bhupen Kumar Borah.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma indicated that this event will diminish the organizational capacity of the opposition party in light of the upcoming elections.
Sarma officially revealed that Borah is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party on February 22, labeling this transition as a pivotal moment in Assam’s political arena.
While addressing reporters at Borah’s home, Sarma remarked that the departure of a leader who dedicated nearly three decades to the Congress and ascended to the role of state president highlights entrenched internal issues within the party.
The Chief Minister mentioned that he would engage in another round of in-depth political discussions with Borah on Wednesday. Dismissing claims that Borah had been functioning as a “BJP agent,” Sarma characterized such allegations as unfounded and politically charged.
He emphasized that a leader of Borah’s caliber does not exit without substantial justification, especially after holding significant organizational roles.
Sarma questioned the Congress high command’s approach to Borah’s concerns, suggesting that his issues were overlooked rather than handled with care.
While avoiding naming specific individuals, Sarma accused some Congress leaders of behaving like “feudal lords,” detached from grassroots realities and resistant to accountability.
He noted that this internal culture has consistently marginalized dedicated leaders, ultimately compelling them to resign.
On a broader political scale, the Chief Minister asserted that Borah’s exit would critically undermine the Congress’s credibility and morale in Assam, considering his significant influence within the party framework. While clarifying that the BJP is not motivated by a “Congress-mukt” agenda, Sarma stated that the party is focused on offering a robust and stable political alternative for the state.
He anticipates a more significant political realignment by 2031, adding that Borah’s departure would exert ongoing pressure on the Congress organization in the years to come.