Assam Congress Drama: Bhupen Borah Resigns, Withdraws Within Hours

GUWAHATI: In a dramatic turn of events that briefly plunged the Assam Congress into uncertainty, senior leader and former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah resigned from the party on Monday morning — only to withdraw his resignation hours later following intense intervention from the Congress high command.

Borah, a two-time MLA who has been associated with the Congress for over three decades, reportedly emailed his resignation letter to party president Mallikarjun Kharge around 8 AM. Citing issues of “self-respect,” organisational neglect and internal disagreements, he indicated that persistent factional tensions within the state unit had led to his decision.

Resignation Sparks Political Shockwaves

The development triggered immediate concern within the Assam Congress, particularly with the 2026 Assembly elections approaching. Sources suggested that internal rifts over leadership roles, organisational decisions and ticket distribution had been building for months.

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Speaking to reporters earlier in the day, Borah said his move was driven not by personal ambition but by concerns over the party’s direction. He highlighted the need for stronger organisational clarity and unity as the Congress prepares to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming polls.

High Command Intervention and Marathon Meetings

As the news spread, senior Congress leaders, including AICC in-charge for Assam Bhanwar Jitendra Singh and current APCC chief Gaurav Gogoi, rushed to Borah’s residence for discussions. Rahul Gandhi reportedly spoke to Borah over the phone, urging him to reconsider his decision.

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During the meetings, Gogoi publicly expressed regret over the situation, signalling attempts to ease tensions within the state leadership. The negotiations eventually led to a breakthrough when the party high command declined to accept the resignation.

Withdrawal Signals Temporary Truce

By mid-afternoon, Jitendra Singh announced that Borah had agreed to withdraw his resignation after discussions with central leaders. Borah later confirmed the decision, describing it as a step towards maintaining party unity while reiterating the need to address underlying issues.

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Political observers say the episode reflects deeper organisational challenges within the Assam Congress. While the immediate crisis appears to have been defused, questions remain about factional dynamics and leadership cohesion ahead of the elections.

Political Reactions and Electoral Implications

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised the Congress during the unfolding drama, framing the resignation as evidence of internal instability. Analysts note that such political messaging could shape public perception as parties intensify preparations for the 126-seat Assembly polls expected in early 2026.

For the Congress, the incident underscores the urgency of projecting unity and organisational strength. While Borah’s withdrawal may stabilise the situation temporarily, observers believe the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the party can overcome internal divisions and mount a credible electoral challenge.