The induction of Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has triggered fresh political reactions, with the Indian National Congress terming the move “unfortunate.”
Adding to the controversy, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate, Chairperson of Social Media & Digital Platforms and a member of the Congress Working Committee, had earlier made sharp remarks against Bordoloi, describing him as “one of the most corrupt and manipulative power-brokers Assam has ever seen” who “plundered the state mercilessly during his tenure.” The remarks have now resurfaced, raising political questions in light of his entry into the BJP.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described Bordoloi’s resignation as regrettable, suggesting that differences over ticket allocation may have influenced his decision.
“I think he was upset over ticket allocation, and I wish we had a chance to have a conversation. It is unfortunate,” she said inside the Parliament House complex.
Congress MP Imran Masood criticised the move, calling it a compromise with ideology.
“It is unfortunate that he won from a seat with a 65% Muslim population. He secured victory on votes against the BJP. Compromising with ideology is not the right thing to do. We will try to persuade him,” Masood said.
Meanwhile, the BJP countered the criticism, stating that Bordoloi’s resignation reflects growing support for the ruling party.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey took a swipe at the Congress, saying, “There is nothing left in the Congress. Gaurav Gogoi could be next.”
BJP MP Dinesh Sharma said public confidence in the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has increased, adding that the Congress is gradually shrinking into a regional force as leaders continue to switch sides.
Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MP Damodar Agarwal remarked, “No one wants to remain on a sinking boat. Congress leaders are seeking better options due to the party’s weaknesses.”
In a setback to the Congress, Bordoloi resigned from the party on Tuesday and formally joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday, just about 20 days ahead of the Assembly elections in Assam.
Earlier, in a letter to AICC leader Jitendra Singh, Bordoloi expressed dissatisfaction over the party’s decision to field MLA Dr Asif Nazar from the constituency. He also alleged that Nazar was behind a “life-threatening” attack on him in April 2025.
