Assam’s political scenario is witnessing a significant shift as two Congress MLAs have openly extended support to the BJP-led Government under Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership. Adding to the turmoil, Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha, one among the Congress MLA to support the BJP, announced his ressignation from the party. Earlier, he had tendered his resignation from the position of Working President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee on February 14.
Previously, in the day, in his letter addressed to APCC president Bhupen Borah, Kamalakhya Dey has expressed his decision to step down from the position of Working President with immediate effect, reaffirming his commitment to the Congress party solely as a primary member. However, hours later reports surfaced about his resignation from the party.
Reliable sources indicate that North Karimganj MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha and Mangaldoi constituency MLA Basanta Das are preparing to openly declare their support for the BJP Government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, amid growing discord within the Congress leadership. Their recent meeting with and acknowledgment of the Assam CM further solidifies their stance.
“I am aligned with the Assam Chief Minister for the betterment of the State,” affirmed Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha. Meanwhile, Basanta Das confirmed his active participation in all programs led by the Chief Minister in his constituency, showcasing support for developmental initiatives.
This development unfolds amidst internal strife within the Congress, primarily concerning ticket distribution for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Speculation is rife that veteran Congress leader Pradyut Bordoloi may defect to the BJP, prompted by potential replacement in the Nagaon Lok Sabha seat.
Moreover, tensions escalated between Samaguri MLA Rockybul Hussain and Barpeta MP Abdul Khaleque over the Dhubri seat candidacy, exacerbating internal discord.
Reports suggest a lack of internal communication among top leaders regarding ticket distribution, fostering a climate of distrust and frustration among sitting MPs.
The Congress grapples with defections to the BJP, exemplified by the recent joining of Angkita Dutta and former MLA Bismita Gogoi, accompanied by scathing criticism of the party leadership.
As uncertainties loom over the fate of sitting MPs and with Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha’s avowed support for the Assam CM, the Congress faces the looming prospect of further setbacks ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
