In a major political shake-up in Assam, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Monsing Rongpi and Binanda Saikia have left the party to rejoin the Congress, citing internal disagreements. This development comes as a significant blow to the BJP as it gears up for the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly elections.
Binanda Saikia, a three-time MLA from Sipajhar and a former close aide of both Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, had previously switched from Congress to BJP. However, after being denied a BJP ticket for the 2021 elections, Saikia has now returned to his original party, signaling frustration within the BJP ranks.
Monsing Rongpi, another prominent BJP leader with ambitions of securing an MLA seat, also cited internal discord as a reason for his exit. The defections highlight growing unrest within the BJP, particularly among its “old guard,” as political analysts point to tensions between long-standing members and newer entrants, including those led by CM Sarma.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded diplomatically, stating, “I wish those leaving the BJP all the best in their future endeavours.” Despite his conciliatory tone, the exits are seen as a challenge to the BJP’s unity and electoral strategy.
In a related development, Diganta Kalita, a close associate of CM Sarma, has been named the BJP candidate for Kamalpur in the 2026 elections. Following this announcement, Satyabrata Kalita reportedly parted ways with the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a key BJP ally, further underscoring the shifting political landscape in Assam.
Political observers suggest that these high-profile exits could weaken the BJP’s position in key constituencies and bolster Congress’s prospects as the 2026 elections approach. The defections also reflect broader internal disagreements within the BJP, potentially impacting its dominance in Assam’s political arena.
