Guwahati-February 22, 2026
Senior Assam political leader Bhupen Kumar Borah, previously serving as the Bhupen Borah and former state president of the Indian National Congress in Assam, formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday, marking a major shift in the political dynamics of the state as it heads into elections. The induction ceremony took place at the party’s state headquarters, Vajpayee Bhawan in Guwahati, in the presence of Assam BJP president Dilip Saikia and other senior party leaders.
Political Background and Career
Bhupen Borah has been a prominent figure in Assam politics for over three decades. He served as the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president from 2021 to 2025 and has represented the Bihpuria Assembly constituency in the Assam Legislative Assembly earlier in his career. His leadership roles made him one of the key faces of the Congress party in the Northeast.
After submitting his resignation to the Congress leadership on February 16, 2026, Borah’s departure triggered intense political speculation. Senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, reportedly reached out to persuade him to reconsider his decision, while Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma publicly announced Borah’s intention to join the BJP on February 22 during a visit to his residence.
Joining Ceremony and Immediate Reactions
The formal induction into the BJP took place amid growing anticipation as the Assam Legislative Assembly elections, with 126 seats, are scheduled for March–April 2026. Alongside Borah, former Congress worker Sanju Bora and several other party members also joined the BJP at the event.
Speaking after joining the ruling party, Borah reflected on his long political journey, having served the Congress for more than 32 years, and expressed his hopes for a fresh start in the BJP.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed him, describing the shift as a new political beginning and acknowledging Borah’s contribution to state politics over many years.
Significance and Political Context
Political analysts suggest Borah’s switch to the BJP could significantly impact electoral equations, particularly in constituencies where he has long-standing influence. His departure also highlights broader challenges within the Congress party as it prepares for a crucial election season.
In a post-joining interview with NDTV, Borah expressed criticism of his former party’s preparedness for the elections, stating that the Congress lacked funds and internal unity to effectively contest the polls — remarks that underline dissatisfaction with the party’s current structure and prospects.
Looking Ahead
Borah’s induction into the BJP is being closely watched by political observers as Assam gears up for a closely contested Assembly election. The political shift not only boosts the BJP’s organisational strength but also raises questions about opposition cohesion in the northeastern state.
