Bhupen Borah Meets Amit Shah to Discuss Future Political Moves in Assam

Former Congress president Bhupen Borah met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, indicating a shift towards the BJP. He anticipates significant Congress defections to the BJP by March 8, highlighting the importance of leadership for Assam's future.

Bhupen Borah, a former Congress president, is preparing to join the BJP. On Friday night, he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the state guest house. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, BJP national vice president Baijayant Panda, and Lakhimpur MLA Manab Deka were also present during this meeting.

Borah mentioned that Chief Minister Sarma had requested him to meet Shah, so he made a courtesy visit. He expressed confidence in Shah's leadership, believing it could secure the future of Assam's youth and preserve the state's identity. "There is a saying that politicians think about the next elections and a statesman about the future generations. After my conversation with him, I am assured that the future of the youth and the identity of the state can be safeguarded by a leader like him," Borah stated.

Political Transition and Future Plans

Borah predicted that by March 8, around half of Congress members with self-respect and nationalist sentiments would switch to the BJP. He clarified that no discussions about potential electoral seats took place during his meeting with Shah. Borah expressed gratitude towards Sarma for sharing his humble beginnings with Shah, highlighting his journey as a school teacher's son.

Despite criticism from Congress leaders, Borah remains optimistic about his political future. He recalled how senior leaders praised him as a pillar of the party when he resigned. Reflecting on his past transition from All Assam Students Union (AASU) to Congress in 1993, he noted that he was initially defamed but later became a prominent legislator and state president.

Reactions and Allegations

Regarding Raijor Dal President Akhil Gogoi's claims about Congress's lack of seriousness towards opposition alliances, Borah responded by stating that Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi blames Akhil for their 2016 assembly election defeat. Borah also commented on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's recent visit to Assam, noting her usual cheerful demeanor was absent in photographs from her trip.

Borah dismissed suggestions that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's tribute to singer Zubeen Garg at his samadhi was politically motivated. "No, it is not, as one has to go," he said. His resignation from Congress was not accepted by the high command initially, with senior leaders visiting his home and Rahul Gandhi reaching out to him.

Upcoming Political Shift

Borah had requested time to reconsider his decision to leave Congress. However, Chief Minister Sarma later announced Borah's intention to join the BJP on February 22 after visiting his residence. Borah assured that he would remain committed to serving Assam's people within the BJP.

Borah emphasised that he would continue advocating for Assam's interests within the BJP. He promised to prove himself once more when given opportunities by his new party. The people of Assam will find him unchanged in his dedication to their welfare.

With inputs from PTI