Guwahati: In a major political development that has shaken Assam’s opposition camp, senior Congress leader and former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah has sent his resignation letter to the party’s central leadership, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the functioning of the party.
Addressing a press conference, Borah openly criticized the direction in which the Congress party is moving. He stated that the party’s decline began when former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi joined hands with AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal.
“The way Congress is moving forward is like committing suicide,” Borah remarked. He revealed that he had sent detailed messages raising several issues nearly a month ago, but the party leadership did not respond seriously.
Stating that it took him time to write the resignation letter after serving the party for 32 years, Borah said he has always worked honestly for Congress. “No leader has told me that I was wrong. If my dignity is hurt even after working sincerely, how can I continue?” he questioned emotionally.
Borah also raised objections over an internal proposal to reserve 48 seats for Muslims within the party. Additionally, he expressed displeasure that during the Bihali by-election, a non-Congress candidate was given a ticket without his knowledge while he was serving as state president.
Following the news of his resignation, top Congress leaders rushed to Borah’s residence in Guwahati. APCC president Gaurav Gogoi, MP Pradyut Bordoloi, Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia, along with AICC leaders Jitendra Singh and Manoj Chauhan, held a meeting with him for nearly three and a half hours, urging him not to leave the party.
In an emotional gesture, Gaurav Gogoi publicly apologized before the media, saying, “If I have made any mistake unknowingly, please forgive me as a younger brother.” He described Borah as a strong pillar of the party and a powerful voice against anti-people forces. Gogoi also mentioned that he had spoken to senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the matter.
However, Borah did not immediately agree to withdraw his resignation. He said he needs time to reflect and discuss the issue with his family and supporters before taking a final decision. Though he was expected to attend an important Congress meeting later in the evening, his absence further fueled speculation that he may not reconsider his decision.
Meanwhile, political reactions have started pouring in from other parties. Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi stated that he would welcome Borah with respect. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also indicated that the doors of the BJP remain open for him and that the party is ready to offer a suitable constituency if he decides to join.
With Borah’s next move awaited, the political atmosphere in Assam remains tense. His decision is expected to have a significant impact on the future of the Congress party in the state.
