BJP Leader Simanta Shekhar Resigns, Citing Personal Reasons
Simanta Shekhar Steps Down from BJP
File image of Simanta Shekhar. (Photo:@shekhar_simanta/X)
Guwahati, Sept 22: Simanta Shekhar, a singer and member of the BJP, has announced his resignation from the party, citing personal reasons.
In addition to his departure from the BJP, Shekhar has also relinquished his role as chairman of the Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation, along with his positions within the state executive and primary membership of the party.
He made his resignation public through a social media post on Tuesday.
In his letter directed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the state BJP president, Shekhar mentioned that he was stepping down due to personal reasons.
“I am resigning from the state executive membership and the primary membership of the party due to personal reasons,” he stated in his letter.
Shekhar took the opportunity to thank senior leaders, colleagues, and party workers for the support and respect he received during his time with the BJP.
“I sincerely thank every senior leader, colleague, and worker for the experience, love, respect, and cooperation I received during my association with the party,” he expressed.
This resignation follows Shekhar's comments regarding remarks made by Guwahati Central legislator Vijay Gupta about Zubeen Garg’s contributions to music and cinema.
In a social media post, Shekhar advised the MLA to first appreciate Garg’s music and his significance in Assam’s culture before making public statements.
“Honourable MLA, first study Zubeen Garg properly. Try to understand his music, contributions, and his place in Assam’s society and culture,” Shekhar had remarked.
Gupta had previously stated at a Zubeen Divas tribute event in Guwahati that Garg had performed 3,000 songs in 40 languages, referring to his film as “China Mission.”
Following backlash, Gupta later apologized, clarifying that he meant to say “more than 30,000” songs.
Shekhar's resignation occurs as the BJP ramps up its campaign for the forthcoming Nagaon bypoll.