In a move stirring political dynamics in Assam before the elections, Bhupen Borah, former Assam Congress president, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, hinting at his forthcoming switch to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22. Shah’s invitation for the meeting upon his arrival in Guwahati, where he has scheduled events, lasted about 30 minutes and included Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and MLA Manab Deka. Borah, who left Congress after 32 years, expressed contentment with the BJP’s recognition, contrasting it with his experience in the Congress.
Borah’s move is significant given his seniority and past leadership role in the state Congress. His shift to the BJP is anticipated to bolster the party’s influence, especially in Upper Assam, where he holds sway. Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that leaders aligning with development, stability, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision are joining the BJP willingly. Sarma highlighted Borah’s political acumen and grassroots understanding as assets that will enhance the BJP’s organizational structure in Assam.
The Congress faced criticism as reports emerged of senior leader Nurul Huda being kept waiting during Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s visit to Assam, underscoring discontent among senior party members. Borah’s alignment with the BJP is viewed as a setback for the Congress by political analysts, as the ruling party continues to attract key opposition figures before the elections.
