Has Bhupen Borah Lost His Morale? Gaurav Gogoi Speaks Out
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Feb 18 (NationPress) The president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) and Lok Sabha representative, Gaurav Gogoi, sharply criticized former state Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah on Wednesday. This came in response to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announcing that Borah would join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22.
In his remarks, Gogoi characterized Borah as a “cunning leader”, stating that he has forfeited his right to address matters related to the Congress party.
“Bhupen Borah has lost the moral authority to discuss the Congress,” Gogoi asserted, emphasizing that Borah had made commitments against joining the BJP.
“He had taken an oath stating he would not align with the BJP, yet he is now heading in that direction,” Gogoi noted.
Gogoi voiced strong disapproval of Chief Minister Sarma's recent comments labeling Borah a “Hindu leader”, arguing that such remarks were divisive and intended to foster communal polarization within Assam’s political dialogue.
“In a time when Assam requires inclusive politics, the Chief Minister is promoting a perilous narrative by labeling leaders based on religion,” Gogoi said.
Interestingly, Gogoi mentioned that Borah’s exit from the Congress has clarified the party’s political trajectory.
“Those lacking ideological commitment are welcome to leave. The Congress will progress with leaders who uphold its values,” he stated.
Chief Minister Sarma had announced on Tuesday that Borah would officially join the BJP on February 22, calling it a significant political shift ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections.
Borah, who was the APCC president until last year, had previously resigned from Congress, sparking considerable political speculation.
While Borah has publicly affirmed his decision, several BJP leaders have indicated that preparations are being made for his induction into the ruling party.
This development has heightened the political dynamics within Assam’s opposition landscape.