Pradyut Bordoloi’s departure is rooted in a deep internal crisis within the Assam Congress, specifically regarding the selection of candidates for the upcoming polls. Bordoloi strongly opposed the party’s decision to re-nominate MLA Asif Muhammad Nazar for the Lahorighat constituency, citing Nazar’s controversial background and alleged involvement in past attacks against him. Despite issuing an ultimatum to the party high command, Bordoloi claimed his concerns were ignored, leading him to conclude that senior leaders were no longer respected within the organization.
The resignation letter also took aim at the leadership style of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Gaurav Gogoi. Bordoloi accused Gogoi of supporting individuals with criminal records and criticized the AICC screening committee for dismissing his grievances as misinformation. As the Chairman of the party’s Manifesto Committee, his exit just three weeks before the election sends a troubling signal to voters and follows the recent departure of another senior leader, former PCC President Bhupen Kumar Borah, highlighting a systemic organizational failure.
Bordoloi officially joined the BJP in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, further consolidating the ruling party’s strength in Upper Assam and the Nagaon region. While Congress leadership has publicly downplayed the loss, attributing the move to potential pressure from the BJP, the defection has sparked anxiety among remaining members regarding the candidate selection process. This move is expected to significantly impact the electoral prospects in key constituencies where Bordoloi holds substantial influence.
