Former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah is poised to switch allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, ahead of the Assam Assembly elections. This move follows a significant meeting between Borah and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at Borah’s residence in Guwahati. The meeting has sparked political speculation in the state, occurring right after Borah’s resignation from the Indian National Congress.
Chief Minister Sarma personally visited Borah’s residence in Ghoramara, where he was greeted by Borah’s family with a traditional ‘aarti’, a gesture laden with political significance. Despite efforts by the Congress leadership to dissuade Borah from resigning, he opted to take time to reassess his stance. Subsequent discussions within the party failed to alter his decision, clearing the path for his formal entry into the BJP later this week.
Earlier, Chief Minister Sarma had indicated the BJP’s willingness to welcome Borah and hinted at providing him with a “safe seat” in the upcoming Assembly elections if he chose to switch sides. These statements, along with the meeting, have fueled speculations of an impending political realignment. Borah’s departure is seen as a notable blow to the Congress in Assam, especially amidst internal dissent, leadership uncertainties, and organizational issues before the polls.
As a former state Congress chief and a prominent political figure, Borah’s defection is anticipated to have a significant impact on the party’s electoral fortunes. With Borah’s formal induction set for February 22, this development hints at potential shifts in Assam’s political landscape. Observers suggest that this move may bolster the BJP’s position in the state while further weakening the Congress as the Assembly elections draw near.
