Guwahati, Feb 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressed strong criticism on Tuesday regarding the "shamshan yatra (funeral procession)" organized by the Congress party in response to former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Borah's departure. He labeled the initiative as politically naive and detrimental.

In a statement to the media, CM Sarma asserted that the Congress party's actions frequently contribute to the BJP's advantage.

“Every time the Congress undertakes a new endeavor, it inadvertently becomes a gift for us,” remarked the Chief Minister, emphasizing that such protest gestures are more a sign of the party's discontent than of its political fortitude.

Referring to Borah’s recent exit from Congress, CM Sarma reminisced about his own departure from the party years ago.

“When I exited the Congress, they went so far as to clean the Rajiv Bhawan premises. Yet, I harbor no resentment,” he noted, contrasting his attitude with the current political rhetoric of the opposition.

Borah officially left Congress last week, citing ongoing neglect, a lack of internal democracy, and the absence of opportunities to engage with the central leadership of the party.

Shortly after his resignation from a party he had been part of for over three decades, Borah joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, signifying a pivotal political transition ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

The fallout from Borah’s resignation and his subsequent induction into the BJP has sparked intense reactions within the Congress party, prompting protests and symbolic demonstrations from party members.

The Congress leadership has accused Borah of treachery, while BJP leaders have welcomed his decision, considering it indicative of mounting disillusionment within the opposition.

In addition, CM Sarma addressed the ticket distribution process in the hill district of Karbi Anglong, mentioning that the BJP would make decisions based on an evaluation of ground realities and organizational feedback.

He indicated that the party would prioritize candidates' chances of winning and local backing in their selections.

Political analysts suggest that Borah’s transition to the BJP could significantly influence Assam’s opposition landscape, particularly as Congress seeks to rebuild alliances and strengthen its foundation. Conversely, the BJP remains confident, asserting that recent political shifts reflect increasing public support for the ruling party across various regions of the state.