Former Assam Congress Chief Bhupen Borah to Join BJP on February 22 After Meeting CM Himanta
In a major political development in Assam, former state Congress chief Bhupen Borah is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, 2026. This move comes just a day after Borah officially resigned from the Congress party, signaling a significant realignment in the state's political landscape.
Meeting with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
On February 17, 2026, Bhupen Borah held a crucial meeting with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The meeting, which took place in the evening, was highly publicized, with Borah seated beside Sarma as the announcement was made. This visual underscored the political transition and the BJP's strategic gain in the region.
During the meeting, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that Borah, along with several other Congress leaders, would formally join the BJP on February 22. The inclusion of Borah is expected to bolster the BJP's organizational strength and outreach in Assam, particularly ahead of upcoming electoral challenges.
Background and Political Implications
Bhupen Borah's departure from the Congress marks a notable setback for the party in Assam, where it has been struggling to regain political momentum. As the former president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), Borah was a key figure in the state's opposition politics. His exit follows a period of internal discord and declining influence for the Congress in the region.
The BJP, under the leadership of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, has been actively consolidating its position in Assam. Sarma, a former Congress leader himself who switched to the BJP in 2015, has been instrumental in expanding the party's base. Borah's joining is seen as part of this broader strategy to weaken the Congress and strengthen the BJP's hold.
Details of the Joining Ceremony
The formal joining ceremony is scheduled for February 22, 2026. It is anticipated to be a significant event, with top BJP leaders likely in attendance to welcome Borah and other Congress defectors. This move is expected to:
- Enhance the BJP's grassroots connectivity in Assam.
- Provide a morale boost to the party's cadre ahead of future elections.
- Potentially attract more disgruntled Congress members to switch sides.
Political analysts suggest that Borah's shift could reshape opposition dynamics in Assam, making it harder for the Congress to mount an effective challenge. The BJP's ability to lure senior leaders from rival parties highlights its growing dominance in the state's political arena.
Reactions and Future Outlook
While the Congress has yet to issue an official statement on Borah's exit, sources indicate that the party is likely to downplay the impact, citing internal restructuring. However, the loss of a state unit chief is a significant blow, and it may trigger further defections or realignments within the Assam Congress.
For the BJP, this development reinforces CM Himanta Biswa Sarma's reputation as a master strategist who can successfully engineer political shifts. It also underscores the party's focus on strengthening its position in northeastern India, a region of strategic importance.
As February 22 approaches, all eyes will be on the joining ceremony, which is set to mark a new chapter in Assam's political narrative. The event will likely be closely watched by political observers and stakeholders across the country.
