Bhupen Kumar Borah, former President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, is set to officially join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday.Borah’s decision comes days after he submitted his resignation from the Indian National Congress, marking a significant political shift in the poll‑bound state. Sarma said senior BJP leaders, including party president Nitin Nabin, have approved Borah’s induction and that he will be welcomed with due respect. He added that Borah’s entry is expected to be accompanied by several other Congress leaders from regions such as Guwahati and North Lakhimpur.
The former Congress leader’s resignation sparked considerable political activity, with Sarma personally visiting Borah’s residence in Ghoramara, Guwahati. Borah was welcomed there by his family in a ceremonial gesture. Despite initial attempts by Congress leaders to persuade him to stay, Borah is moving ahead with his decision to join the BJP.
Sarma said the BJP would support Borah in securing a “safe seat” in the upcoming Assembly elections, framing the move as a natural progression given his long political career and grassroots support. Borah’s switch is being seen as a notable development in Assam’s political landscape ahead of the polls.