Guwahati, March 19 (NationPress) In a pivotal political shift ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, Prateek Bordoloi announced on Thursday that he has withdrawn his candidacy from the Margherita Assembly constituency. This decision follows his father Pradyut Bordoloi's recent alignment with the BJP, which he cited as the reason for his departure, referring to the "current circumstances".

In a formal letter to Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress president and head of the party’s Central Election Committee, Prateek expressed his decision with "great respect and a profound sense of duty towards the party". He stated, "With utmost respect and a deep sense of responsibility towards the party, I wish to convey my decision to withdraw my candidacy from the Margherita Assembly Constituency."

Detailing his rationale, he mentioned that continuing as a Congress candidate would be inappropriate given his father's switch to another political party. While he did not specify the party's name, this announcement followed Pradyut Bordoloi's joining of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Prateek emphasized that his choice was made to prevent any confusion among voters and party members. "The constituents of Margherita and the numerous devoted Congress workers deserve complete clarity and assurance regarding the party's candidate," he remarked, indicating that any uncertainty about his loyalty could be detrimental to both the electorate and the party.

Reiterating his commitment to the Indian National Congress, he assured that his belief in the party’s principles remains "steadfast" and that he would continue to contribute to its advancement and the development of Margherita in any role assigned by the leadership.

He also expressed his heartfelt thanks to the party leadership for their trust and support over the years, reflecting on his long-standing association with the Congress since his youth.

This withdrawal is anticipated to have significant political ramifications in Margherita, as parties adjust their strategies leading up to the elections.

The previous senior Congress member, Pradyut Bordoloi, joined the BJP in the national capital on Wednesday, alongside Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He is expected to contest in the forthcoming Assembly elections in the state.

Following his defection to the BJP, Pradyut Bordoloi expressed feelings of being "deeply hurt" and stated that he felt he had "no choice" but to resign from Congress, claiming repeated humiliation and an absence of a supportive environment within the party’s Assam unit.