Sun Feb 22 08:29:10 UTC 2026: Headline: Former Assam Congress Chief Joins BJP Ahead of Assembly Elections

The Story:
In a significant political development ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly elections expected in March-April 2026, former Assam Congress President Bhupen Kumar Borah joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, 2026. The move comes days after Borah resigned from his post on February 16, 2026. Despite efforts from Congress high command to retain him, including discussions with Rahul Gandhi, Borah ultimately decided to join the ruling BJP at a function held at the party headquarters in Guwahati.

Borah cited disillusionment with the Congress party’s direction and its perceived disregard for the sentiments of the Assamese community as reasons for his departure. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed Borah into the BJP, emphasizing the value of his experience and the respect he would receive within the party.

Key Points:

  • Former Assam Congress President Bhupen Kumar Borah joined the BJP on February 22, 2026.
  • Borah resigned from Congress on February 16, 2026, citing disillusionment with the party’s leadership and its disconnect with the Assamese community.
  • Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma personally intervened, visiting Borah and announcing his decision to join the BJP.
  • The Assam Assembly elections are expected to take place in March-April 2026.
  • Sanju Bora, another former Congress worker, also joined the BJP.

Critical Analysis:
The timing of Borah’s defection, immediately before the upcoming assembly elections, suggests a strategic move by the BJP to consolidate its position in Assam. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s active role in securing Borah’s defection shows the BJP’s aggressive approach to weakening the opposition and attracting influential leaders. The Congress party’s failure to retain Borah, despite attempts by senior leaders and Rahul Gandhi, highlights potential internal weaknesses and challenges in maintaining party unity in the face of BJP’s advances.

Key Takeaways:

  • The BJP is actively seeking to strengthen its position in Assam ahead of the assembly elections.
  • The Congress party faces challenges in retaining key leaders and maintaining unity.
  • Defections can significantly impact the political landscape, especially close to election dates.
  • Borah’s move reflects a broader trend of political realignments and shifts in power dynamics.
  • The event underscores the importance of local leadership and community sentiment in state-level politics.

Impact Analysis:
The defection of a prominent Congress leader like Bhupen Kumar Borah to the BJP is likely to have a significant impact on the upcoming Assam Assembly elections. It could boost the BJP’s morale and electoral prospects by consolidating support and potentially attracting more Congress members. Conversely, it weakens the Congress party, potentially demoralizing its base and affecting its ability to effectively challenge the BJP. The long-term impact could involve a shift in the political balance in Assam, further solidifying the BJP’s dominance and reshaping the state’s political landscape.

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