Guwahati, Feb 19: Assam Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia on February 18 firmly dismissed speculation about a possible defection to the Bharatiya Janata Party, asserting that he remains committed to the Congress despite recent political upheavals in the state.
His clarification comes in the wake of former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah resigning from the party and subsequently meeting Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The developments have fuelled intense speculation about further exits from the Congress ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Taking to X, Saikia defended his loyalty to the party in strong terms. Reflecting on political events from a decade ago in Sivasagar, he criticised what he described as opportunistic elements within the organisation. He wrote that when the Congress was in power, certain individuals competed to appear loyal, but later abandoned their ideology for personal gain. Emphasising his steadfastness, Saikia declared that his allegiance to the Congress remains unchanged, stating that true loyalty cannot be bought.
Earlier in the day, Saikia expressed disappointment over Borah’s decision to join the BJP but refrained from speculating on the reasons behind the move. Borah had submitted his resignation to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge a day earlier, adding to the uncertainty within the state unit.
Recalling the early days of his political career, Saikia acknowledged Borah’s guidance when he was first elected as an MLA in 2001. He said Borah had advised him on how to present his views effectively in the Assembly and offered valuable counsel during his initial tenure. While expressing respect for that support, Saikia maintained that he was unaware of what led to Borah’s recent decision and extended his best wishes.
Addressing questions about his own political future, Saikia criticised the BJP’s ideological approach and categorically ruled out joining the party. He stated that politics should be guided by public service and principles, adding that he does not share the BJP’s ideological position, which he accused of dividing Assamese society.
The unfolding developments highlight increasing turbulence within the Assam Congress at a crucial juncture, as the party seeks to stabilise its leadership and consolidate its position ahead of the state elections.
