Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 16 reacted in Guwahati to Bhupen Kumar Borah’s resignation from the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), stating that the development was not unexpected and extending an open invitation for him to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The remarks were made shortly after Borah stepped down, citing “self-respect” and instability within the state Congress unit. The political exchange has intensified discussions across Guwahati, particularly around Rajiv Bhawan, the APCC headquarters.
After Bhupen Borah resigned from the Assam Congress on February 16, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in Guwahati that the move was not surprising and invited him to join the BJP. Sarma stated that the party’s doors are open and indicated a possible MLA ticket, subject to party approval.
Statement From Guwahati
Speaking to the media in Guwahati, Sarma said, “It is no surprise that Bhupen Borah has resigned from APCC. I’ve predicted that way earlier.”
He further alleged that ordinary workers have little space within the Congress structure.
“General people have no place in the party. Only those belonging to a political background or from a minority community are ruling it at present. Borah was the last Hindu leader in the Assam Congress whose parents were not a Minister or MLA,” Sarma said.
The Congress has not issued an official response to these remarks at the time of reporting.
Open Invitation to Join the BJP
Sarma added that Borah would be welcome in the BJP.
“The doors in the BJP are open for him. If he wants to join, he is most welcome, and if possible, we will try to give him a ticket for MLA, provided the party agrees,” he said.
The statement adds a new political dimension to Borah’s resignation, especially in Guwahati, where political alignments often shape state-level developments.
Context: Borah’s Resignation
Bhupen Borah submitted his resignation earlier in the morning and later addressed the media in Guwahati. He cited “self-respect” and internal instability within the Assam Congress as reasons for stepping down.
He clarified that he is not retiring from politics and is awaiting a response from the party’s central leadership.
His resignation has sparked active discussions among party workers and political observers in Guwahati.
Impact on Guwahati’s Political Landscape
As Assam’s political and administrative hub, Guwahati is at the centre of unfolding developments. Rajiv Bhawan remains the focal point of internal Congress consultations, while the BJP’s state leadership has publicly positioned itself as open to Borah’s entry.
Political analysts note that such public invitations are strategic moves that may influence party workers, voter perceptions, and future electoral planning in urban constituencies.
What Happens Next?
It remains unclear whether Borah will respond to the BJP’s invitation or await further communication from the Congress high command.
Any shift in political alignment would likely have implications for Guwahati-based organisational strategies and future Assembly contests.
For now, both parties are expected to monitor the situation closely as developments unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Himanta Biswa Sarma invite Bhupen Borah to join the BJP?
Yes. In Guwahati on February 16, Sarma said the BJP’s doors are open and that Borah would be welcome if he chooses to join.
Will Bhupen Borah join the BJP?
There is no confirmation. Borah has stated that he is awaiting a response from the Congress central leadership.
Why is this significant for Guwahati?
Guwahati is Assam’s political hub. Any major shift involving senior leaders can influence party strategy, organisational planning, and upcoming elections in the city.
