Political Shift in Assam: Pradyut Bordoloi Joins BJP and Secures Ticket

In a rapid political shift, Pradyut Bordoloi has joined the BJP and secured a ticket for the upcoming Assam state elections, leaving behind his Congress ties. His son, Pratik, has decided not to contest as a Congress candidate. Bordoloi's journey reflects his long-standing political career, having represented Dispur since 1985 and previously held the Margherita seat. He expressed feelings of neglect within Congress and sought a more respectful platform in the BJP. However, concerns about the current environment within the BJP have also emerged, indicating a complex political landscape ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 12:45 IST

Pradyut Bordoloi's Sudden Shift to BJP

In a surprising turn of events, Pradyut Bordoloi has made headlines in Assam's political landscape by joining the BJP and securing a ticket for the upcoming state elections within just 24 hours. Meanwhile, his son, Pratik Bordoloi, has opted not to contest as a Congress candidate from the Margherita assembly constituency. Bordoloi, a former Congress MP, severed ties with the party on Wednesday and has been nominated by the BJP to contest from Dispur, replacing the incumbent MLA Atul Bora.

Bordoloi's Political Journey

Bora, one of the founding members of the Assam Gana Parishad (AGP), first won the Dispur seat in 1985. He joined the BJP in 2013 and has since won the seat in two consecutive elections. Pradyut Bordoloi held the Margherita seat from 1998 to 2016. After losing in the last assembly elections, he contested and won the Nagaon Lok Sabha seat in 2024. He previously served as the president of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), the student wing of the BJP.

Challenges Faced in Congress

Describing his transition to the BJP as emotionally challenging, Bordoloi, a two-time MP and former minister in Tarun Gogoi's Congress government, expressed feelings of suffocation and neglect within the party. He sought a platform where he could work with dignity. Bora, who has represented Dispur since 1985, mentioned that he has defeated three chief ministers during his political career and expected the party to consider his past achievements.

Concerns About BJP's Current Environment

Bora expressed disappointment regarding the current state within the BJP, stating that it has led to his disillusionment. He noted that the atmosphere for working in the party is not conducive, and party workers are uncertain about their direction. Despite claiming to be the largest party, the BJP is now bringing in candidates from outside.