Bhupen Borah’s blistering farewell: Bleed if you must to defeat Himanta in 2026

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 3, 2025

In a no-holds-barred farewell speech, outgoing Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah delivered a fierce call to arms, urging Congress workers to launch a relentless campaign to unseat the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led BJP government in the 2026 elections.

“This is just the beginning,” Borah thundered. “To end corruption and misrule in Assam, we must be ready to bleed if necessary. Every worker must take an oath of sacrifice and turn it into a mass movement.”

Using mythological symbolism, Borah likened the BJP regime to the demon Mahishasura, and called on Congress workers to be the modern-day Durga armed with conviction and unity. “This government thrives on gimmicks—arm licenses, a Rs 1,250 Orunodoi allowance. We cannot be pacified by token benefits while injustice runs deep,” he said.

Looking back, Borah described the turmoil he inherited as APCC chief—half the District Congress Committee presidents had resigned, 65 blocks lacked leadership, and the party was in disarray. “There was a time no one showed up with a gamosa when I landed in Kokrajhar. But I stood firm. I took charge then, and I hand it over now with hope.”

Borah voiced full support for his successor, Gaurav Gogoi. “I welcomed Gaurav with all my heart. In politics, everyone has personal and party interests—but above all, we serve the people. That’s our true calling.”

He warned against digital delusions. “Giving bytes to TV channels or trending on Facebook isn’t enough. Sixty per cent may be online, but 30 per cent still don’t have Android phones. We must know the difference between reel life and real life.”

Capping off his emotional address, Borah reminded party workers that victory starts at the grassroots. “If you want to be an MLA, win your booth first. Take my booth, take responsibility, and you’ll defeat a hundred Himantas. Stop talking about loyalty—prove it with action. The barricades we broke and the blood we spilt must count for something.”