Why Bhupen Borah Joining BJP Is A Big Moment For Assam Politics

ABP Live Election Corner: A major political churn is underway in Assam. Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on February 22, 2026, according to political sources. The development is being seen as a major moment ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly elections. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma termed Borah’s move a “homecoming.” 

Reports suggest that several of Borah’s close aides and supporters may also switch sides, a move that could significantly impact the state’s political balance and weaken the Congress at the grassroots level.

Bhupen Borah Joining BJP: Who He Is & Why It Matters

Bhupen Borah was born on October 30, 1970, in Lakhimpur district of Assam. He studied at North Lakhimpur College and later at Dibrugarh University. 

His political journey began in student politics, where he served as Vice President of the North Lakhimpur College Students’ Union and General Secretary of the Dibrugarh University Postgraduate Students’ Union.

Over the years, Borah emerged as a key Congress leader in Assam. He served as the President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee from 2021 to 2024. He was also elected as MLA from the Bihpuria assembly constituency for two consecutive terms between 2006 and 2016. 

During the tenure of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Borah worked as a parliamentary secretary and party spokesperson, giving him both administrative and organisational experience.

His likely move to the BJP is being seen as politically important due to his long experience and local connections. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that when leaders feel their party is not giving its best to win elections, disappointment sets in, which often leads to such decisions.

Impact On Assam Politics And Congress Reaction To Bhupen Borah's Exit

Bhupen Borah resigned from the Congress on February 16, 2026, citing internal differences and a lack of democratic decision-making within the party. 

He pointed to problems in leadership coordination and dissatisfaction over discussions related to alliances and candidate selection.

Political observers believe his joining the BJP could weaken the Congress further and strengthen the BJP’s local network ahead of the elections. It may also influence voter thinking, especially in key Assamese-speaking regions.

After his resignation, senior Congress leaders reached out to Borah. Party state in-charge Jitendra Singh said the resignation had not been accepted. 

He added that after talks with senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Borah had withdrawn his resignation. Despite this, reports of his BJP induction continue, keeping Assam politics in focus.