Assam Congress Veteran Pradyut Bordoloi Resigns, BJP Outreach Fuels Speculation

Senior Congress leader and former Lok Sabha MP Pradyut Bordoloi has resigned from the Indian National Congress after nearly three decades, citing feelings of being sidelined and expressing deep disappointment with the party’s state leadership. The resignation comes amid public overtures from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who invited Bordoloi to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Media reports suggest that if he switches parties, Bordoloi could potentially contest from the Dispur assembly constituency in the upcoming state elections. Bordoloi has confirmed the BJP’s outreach but noted the absence of response from Congress leadership. Congress Party: Leaders described Bordoloi’s resignation as “unfortunate” and emphasized party unity, calling media speculation about defections “timed and misleading.” Some officials cited internal disagreements and ticket-related disputes as possible factors behind his departure. BJP: The ruling party in Assam has welcomed Bordoloi, with CM Sarma extending an open invitation for him to join the party, signaling potential strategic advantages ahead of the elections. Analysts say Bordoloi’s exit marks a significant moment for Assam politics, highlighting both internal challenges within the Congress and the BJP’s efforts to strengthen its electoral prospects in the state. Observers note that the move could reshape local electoral dynamics in the run-up to the assembly polls.