Assam Chief Minister Foresees Bleak Outlook for Congress Party
In a significant political development, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has declared that the future of the Congress party in the state appears "grim" following the resignation of former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah. Sarma characterized this move as a "symbolic message" that highlights the deep-seated internal challenges plaguing the opposition party.
Borah's Departure Reflects Organizational Dissatisfaction
Addressing journalists, Chief Minister Sarma asserted that Borah's decision to step down mirrors widespread discontent within the Congress organization. He elaborated that Borah was "the last Hindu leader in the Assam Congress who held neither an MLA position nor a ministerial role," and claimed that Borah had voiced concerns regarding what he described as "appeasement politics" within the party.
Sarma expressed his approval of the resignation but made it clear that Borah has not initiated any contact with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) about potentially joining their ranks. "Bhupen Borah has not reached out to us for any joining. Tomorrow evening, I will visit his residence. Three years ago, we were prepared to welcome him and offer a secure electoral seat," Sarma stated during the press interaction.
Congress Condition Described as Terrible
Commenting on the overall state of the Congress party in Assam, the chief minister described its position as "terrible," pointing to what he perceives as shifting internal dynamics. He alleged that Congress district-level meetings frequently commence with prayers associated with "a particular community," adding that "people are noticing these changes."
Regarding the possibility of new entrants into the BJP, Sarma indicated that the party would need to engage in "careful calibration" due to limited vacancies. He further predicted additional resignations from the Congress in the upcoming weeks, emphasizing that this trend is independent of whether departing leaders choose to join the BJP.
Upcoming Meeting and Political Predictions
Sarma announced his intention to meet Bhupen Borah soon, stating, "I will meet Bhupen Borah tomorrow," though he did not provide specific details about the purpose of this meeting. Additionally, he suggested that several Congress Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) might consider switching sides after the conclusion of the ongoing Rajya Sabha election process. However, he clarified that the BJP is "not encouraging such moves at this moment."
The chief minister also made a bold political prediction concerning senior Congress leader Debabrata Saikia, forecasting that he will join the BJP following the 2026 Assembly elections. "After the 2026 elections, Debabrata Saikia will come to the BJP. I will personally speak to his mother and bring him to the BJP," Sarma confidently declared.
Background on Bhupen Borah's Resignation
Bhupen Borah, a seasoned Congress leader with over three decades of service within the party, submitted his resignation earlier in the day. He cited reasons of self-respect and organizational failures, a move that has sparked intense political reactions throughout Assam. His departure is viewed as a significant blow to the Congress party's structure and morale in the region.
The unfolding political scenario in Assam continues to draw attention as key figures realign and parties strategize for future electoral battles. The statements from Chief Minister Sarma underscore the ongoing turbulence within the state's political landscape, with potential implications for both regional and national politics.
