Assam Politics Shake-up: BJP Courting Ex-Congress Leader Bhupen Borah

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced BJP's openness to ex-Congress chief Bhupen Borah, who resigned citing neglect. His resignation ahead of assembly polls is a setback for Congress. Sarma emphasized BJP's embrace of leaders from humble origins, contrasting Congress' alleged elitism. Borah's future plans remain undecided.

In a significant political development, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has opened BJP's doors to Bhupen Borah, the former state Congress chief who resigned on Monday. Sarma's overture comes after Borah cited neglect by Congress leadership as his reason for departure, marking a strategic opportunity for BJP as elections loom.

Borah's resignation letter, addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, criticized the party for sidelining him despite his contributions. Having led Assam Congress from 2021 to 2025, Borah's exit signals internal discord within the party, particularly with his assertion of Congress' bias against leaders from ordinary backgrounds.

Addressing reporters, Sarma underlined BJP's commitment to inclusive politics, contrasting it with Congress' purported elitism. He expressed intent to engage with Borah, praising him as the 'last Hindu leader' in Congress without a political lineage. While Borah has yet to express his next steps, BJP's offer of a 'safe seat' remains on the table.

(With inputs from agencies.)