Assam Congress MP Bhupen Borah Withdraws Resignation After High-Level Talks
In a significant political development, Assam Congress MP and former state unit chief Bhupen Borah on Monday withdrew his resignation following extensive discussions with the party's central leadership, including senior leader Rahul Gandhi. The move comes after Borah had earlier submitted his resignation citing dissatisfaction within the state unit.
Internal Differences Resolved Through Dialogue
Congress's Assam in-charge Bhanwar Jitendra Singh confirmed the resignation withdrawal, stating that internal differences had been successfully resolved through constructive dialogue. "I thank Bhupen Borah for taking back his resignation. Senior Congress leader Bhupen Borah is an important member of the Congress family," Singh told reporters.
He further explained that the party leadership did not accept Borah's resignation and reaffirmed his importance within the organization. "Sometimes differences of opinion arise, but these have been resolved through discussions," Singh added, noting that Borah has been associated with the party for nearly three decades.
Borah's Initial Resignation and Concerns
Earlier in the day, Borah had submitted his resignation to the Congress high command, expressing dissatisfaction over being "ignored" within the state unit and not receiving due recognition for his contributions. Speaking to reporters after sending his resignation letter, he clarified that the decision was not personal but stemmed from genuine concerns about the party's future direction.
"I sent my resignation to the Congress High Command at 8 am this morning and explained in detail why I was compelled to take this stand. This is not a personal decision. I have given 32 years to the party and joined it in 1994," Borah stated.
In his communication to the leadership, Borah emphasized that his principle was "driven by concern for the party's future" rather than personal grievances, which he conveyed in detail to the Congress High Command.
Political Context and Background
Following the meeting with senior leaders, the party successfully persuaded Borah to continue his association, signaling a concerted effort to maintain unity ahead of the crucial Assam Assembly elections expected in March–April. The Congress is likely to contest these elections in alliance with other opposition parties.
Borah served as president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee from 2021 to 2025 before being replaced by Gaurav Gogoi last year. A two-time legislator, he had earlier clarified that his resignation was not intended as a departure from politics and confirmed he had not received any offers from other political parties.
Current Assembly Composition
The political landscape in Assam's 126-member Assembly currently features:
- BJP: 64 seats
- Allies (AGP, UPPL, BPF): 19 seats combined
- Congress: 26 MLAs
- AIUDF: 15 seats
- CPI(M): 1 seat
- Independent: 1 legislator
This development underscores the Congress party's efforts to address internal concerns and present a united front as they prepare for the upcoming electoral battle in Assam.
