Has Ex-Union Minister Rajen Gohain Joined Assam Jatiya Parishad?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Nov 5 (NationPress) Rajen Gohain, a former Union Minister and four-time MP from Nagaon, officially became a member of the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) on Wednesday, signaling a notable transformation in Assam's political arena.
This seasoned politician, who was previously recognized as a pivotal figure within the BJP, departed from the party on October 9 due to his growing discontent with its leadership and strategic direction.
Gohain, accompanied by a cadre of supporters, made his entrance into the AJP during a ceremony at the PWD Auditorium in Guwahati.
Prominent AJP figures, including president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, working president Chitta Basumatary, and senior leader Jagadish Bhuyan, were present at the event.
Upon his induction into the regional party, Gohain pledged to continue his service to the populace with utmost sincerity and dedication.
He stated, "I have always endeavored to fulfill my responsibilities with integrity and commitment. I shall persist in doing so here as well."
Expressing disappointment with the current state of the BJP, Gohain remarked that the party had "drifted far from the ideals of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and veteran leader L.K. Advani."
He added, "My patience has worn thin; the current situation is profoundly disheartening. We did not join this party to witness personality-centric politics. It is now dominated by individuals detached from the party's foundational principles."
As the former Minister of State for Railways during Modi's first term, Gohain had earlier handed in his resignation at the BJP's state headquarters, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan, in Guwahati.
His resignation sparked widespread speculation regarding his next political affiliation, with various parties reportedly vying for his support.
His choice to join the AJP highlights his conviction that a robust regional entity is essential for preserving Assam's interests.
With Gohain's membership, the AJP—established in response to the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act movement—seems to have acquired an experienced political figure whose governance acumen and public engagement may enhance the party's prospects for the upcoming elections in the state.