Former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah criticized Lok Sabha member Gaurav Gogoi, questioning his authority to demand an apology. Borah expressed surprise at Gogoi’s remarks and emphasized a breakdown of trust among senior party leaders.
Borah escalated the situation by accusing Congress legislator Rakibul Hussain of collecting money from around 700 Congress candidates during elections. He also alleged that the party issued a ticket in a by-election to a non-Congress member, raising concerns about organizational discipline.
The former APCC president disclosed discussions within the Congress leadership about denying Rakibul Hussain’s ticket, indicating existing dissent against specific leaders. His statements are seen as a public airing of internal grievances within the state unit.
In a significant shift, Borah praised BJP MLA Amiya Bhuyan, commending his strong background and leadership qualities. This move is perceived as an effort to realign narratives amidst ideological uncertainties within the party.
The ongoing verbal clash between Borah and Gogoi has fueled speculation about potential exits from the Congress, especially as Borah is expected to join the BJP on February 22. This development has left the Assam Congress seemingly adrift, providing the BJP with ammunition to reinforce its narrative of opposition disarray.
