Pradyut Bordoloi Resigns from Congress, Sparks Speculation of BJP Shift

In a significant political development, Pradyut Bordoloi, a senior Congress leader and MP from Nagaon, has resigned from the party, citing feelings of being stifled. His departure has sparked speculation about a potential shift to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), especially with the timing coinciding with the BJP's upcoming candidate announcements. Bordoloi's resignation follows internal conflicts within Congress regarding candidacies, particularly concerning the Lahorighat Assembly seat. This move, along with other recent departures, signals potential challenges for Congress as elections approach.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 23:19 IST

Pradyut Bordoloi's Departure from Congress

Guwahati, Mar 17: Senior Congress figure and Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi has officially resigned from the party, putting an end to ongoing speculation.

In a letter directed to Mallikarjun Kharge, the president of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Bordoloi expressed his decision to part ways with the Grand Old Party, stating it was made with a heavy heart.

“I hereby resign from all positions, privileges, and my primary membership in the Indian National Congress,” the letter stated.

This announcement follows a visit from Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi and AICC general secretary Jitendra Singh to Bordoloi's home.

Prior to the resignation news, Bordoloi mentioned in a television interview that he felt constrained within the party.

“From the outset of my career as an MLA, minister, or MP, my focus has always been on the state's interests. I take pride in being Assamese and have aimed to contribute to the state's development. If I feel restricted, I will remove that barrier and seek an environment conducive to my work,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to serving the people of Assam.

The timing of his resignation has raised eyebrows, with analysts suggesting he might be preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Notably, his resignation comes just a day before the BJP's Central Parliamentary Board meeting, where the party is anticipated to announce its candidate list.

Adding to the speculation, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently indicated a willingness to accommodate Bordoloi in the upcoming Assembly elections, stating, “We will certainly reserve seats for him to contest.”

This political shift follows a 48-hour whirlwind after Bordoloi traveled to Delhi, citing internal conflicts regarding the candidacy for the Lahorighat Assembly seat.

Previously, Bordoloi had expressed his discontent to Jitendra Singh over the Congress's decision to nominate MLA Dr. Asif Nazar for the constituency, alleging that Nazar was involved in a serious attack against him in April 2025.

Meanwhile, Bordoloi's son, Prateek Bordoloi, is expected to contest from Margherita on a Congress ticket.

With Bhupen Borah reportedly moving to the BJP and Bordoloi's recent resignation, the Congress party seems to be facing another significant challenge ahead of the elections.