Rajen Gohain Joins Assam Jatiya Parishad, Critiques BJP Leadership

Gohain's Transition to AJP

Guwahati, Nov 5: Former Union minister Rajen Gohain, who recently departed from the BJP, has launched a fierce critique of his former party after officially joining the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) on Wednesday.

Once a prominent figure within the BJP in Assam, Gohain resigned from the party on October 9, citing increasing dissatisfaction with its leadership and direction.

He made his entry into the AJP alongside a group of supporters during a ceremony at the Public Works Department (PWD) Auditorium in Guwahati.

The event saw the presence of several senior leaders from AJP, including party president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, working president Chitta Basumatary, and senior leader Jagadish Bhuyan.

Upon joining the regional party, Gohain expressed his commitment to serving the people of Assam with sincerity and dedication.

“I have always endeavored to fulfill my responsibilities with integrity, and I will continue to do so here,” he stated.

In a strong denunciation of the BJP, Gohain accused the party of neglecting Assam’s regional interests, suppressing internal dissent, and governing in a “monarchical manner.”

“I dedicated 40 years to the national party, contributing to its growth. However, Assam has now been surrendered to Delhi. The BJP shows no regard for the harmony among various communities and languages. Decisions are made centrally, disregarding the realities of the state,” he remarked.

The former Minister of State for Railways noted that the BJP has strayed significantly from the principles upheld by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and veteran leader LK Advani, who once emphasized collective decision-making and internal democracy.

“I have been patient for a long time, but the current situation is profoundly disappointing. We did not join this party to witness personality-driven politics. It has now fallen into the hands of individuals disconnected from the party’s foundational values,” he commented.

Gohain further claimed that dissent within the BJP is stifled and that state leaders are coerced into silence.

“This is no longer a democracy but a monarchy. They ignore our voices. Even the Chief Minister's position is at risk if one opposes Delhi’s directives,” he asserted.

He also criticized the BJP’s policies for fostering external corporate control in Assam, alleging that local entrepreneurs and the state’s economy are being undermined.

“Their strategy allows outside businessmen to dominate our land and resources. The national party has become a crisis for Assam, akin to certain businessmen who threaten local traders,” he suggested, alluding to increasing industrial encroachment influenced by central authority.

Gohain condemned what he described as the BJP’s “fake Hindutva,” labeling it divisive and contrary to genuine nationalism.

“The BJP’s version of Hindutva is superficial. It thrives on conflict to project strength. True nationalism fosters unity, not division,” he stated.

He emphasized the need to include individuals from all linguistic and cultural backgrounds to protect and strengthen Assam.

“To safeguard Assam, we must embrace people from all communities and languages. The central government has failed to ensure their coordination,” he added.

Gohain also raised concerns regarding the lack of justice in the state, referencing the mysterious death of cultural figure Zubeen Garg and suggesting a potential political conspiracy.

“I doubt Zubeen will receive justice. There are indications of political machinations behind his death,” he remarked.

Calling for a united regional front, Gohain invited disillusioned BJP leaders and workers to join the AJP and work towards restoring Assam’s political autonomy.

“Those who feel marginalized within the BJP should step forward. Assam requires regional unity, not central control,” he urged.

Welcoming Gohain into the party, AJP chief Gogoi praised his induction as a significant boost to the regional movement.

“Today is a pivotal day for the people of Assam to unite for our land and identity. Rajen Gohain’s joining signifies a call to revive Assamese nationalism,” Gogoi stated.

“In times of crisis and challenge, there are also opportunities. Now is the moment to unite. If we act responsibly, the banner of nationalism will once again soar high in Assam,” he added.

Gogoi announced that the AJP would soon organize additional joining events across the state to rally regional forces and enhance public support.