Pradyut Bordoloi Discusses His Shift to BJP and Political Journey

Bordoloi's Transition to BJP

Guwahati, March 24: Pradyut Bordoloi, who recently transitioned from the opposition to the BJP, emphasized that the organizational strength of the BJP surpasses that of the Congress as he prepares to contest the Assembly elections from the Dispur constituency.

Here are some highlights from Bordoloi's interview:

Interviewer: How should I introduce you – as a former minister, a Member of Parliament, or a BJP member?

Bordoloi: (laughs) Life has indeed taken unexpected turns. My political journey has been quite tumultuous. I had to part ways with the Congress due to feelings of humiliation and isolation, despite my long-standing association with the party.

Interviewer: When did you first join?

Bordoloi: I joined the NSUI at 16 while studying at Cotton College. By 18, I had won a significant election in the Cotton College Students’ Union, marking the beginning of my long association with the Congress.

Interviewer: You served as a minister three times.

Bordoloi: Yes, I held various ministerial roles, including that of Home Minister.

Interviewer: Was your departure from Congress impulsive or well-considered?

Bordoloi: Many have questioned my decision to leave. I have always adhered to party discipline and never publicly expressed my grievances. However, the buildup of frustrations became overwhelming, particularly after the 2022 organizational elections.

Interviewer: You supported Shashi Tharoor during those elections?

Bordoloi: Yes, I was among the few MPs advocating for elections instead of a consensus candidate. I believed that organizational elections would enhance internal democracy within the Congress.

Interviewer: You campaigned for him as well, correct?

Bordoloi: Yes, extensively. Our efforts from the northeastern region contributed significantly to his vote count.

Interviewer: Do you feel you faced repercussions for supporting Tharoor?

Bordoloi: Not directly from Kharge, who is quite open-minded, but some party members seemed to view me as a threat for advocating elections.

Interviewer: Why did you choose to join the BJP?

Bordoloi: After resigning, I was approached by BJP leaders. I needed a new platform. Although I had been critical of the BJP, I joined without any conditions.

Interviewer: Was this a risky move for your political career?

Bordoloi: Yes, especially since I still have three and a half years left in my term as an MP.

Interviewer: There's no assurance of victory in Dispur, is there?

Bordoloi: I felt trapped and unable to function effectively within the Congress. The constant humiliation led me to seek change. The BJP leadership reached out to me, and I made it clear that I did not agree with all their views. However, I respect Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his work ethic and innovative thinking.

Interviewer: Some say you were never close to Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Bordoloi: While we may not have been close friends, I have always respected his dedication and vision for Assam, especially during the challenging times we faced in 2001.