Addressing reporters, Gogoi said Sarma’s recent description of Bora as the “last Hindu leader” in the Indian National Congress reflected divisive rhetoric. He asserted that leaders switching parties often fade politically and predicted a similar trajectory for Bora after his scheduled induction into the BJP on February 22.

The comments come amid a widening political confrontation ahead of next year’s Assembly elections in Assam, where shifting alliances and defections are reshaping party strategies. Gogoi insisted Congress remained organisationally strong and said electoral contests would be fought not against the BJP but against what he termed “the old Congress” represented by defectors.

Bora, who resigned from the party after a 32-year association, has accused the leadership of sidelining him. In his resignation letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, he cited persistent neglect. The former state unit chief also alleged that disagreements over alliance talks — including instructions he said he received from Gogoi regarding outreach to other parties — contributed to his decision.

Chief Minister Sarma, appearing alongside Bora earlier this week, said the veteran politician would be welcomed with “full respect and dignity” in the BJP. Drawing parallels with his own exit from Congress years ago, Sarma said many leaders feel constrained within the party and find greater opportunity elsewhere.

Congress leaders, including MP Pradyut Bordoloi and Opposition leader Debabrata Saikia, met Bora earlier this week in an unsuccessful attempt to persuade him to reconsider. Gogoi publicly apologised if any actions had caused offence, calling Bora a “pillar” of the organisation.

Political observers say Bora’s departure could affect Congress prospects in several Upper Assam constituencies, where he has long commanded influence. Sarma has already claimed the move will weaken the opposition, while Gogoi dismissed that assessment, arguing defections do not alter ground realities.

The exchange underscores intensifying rhetoric as parties position themselves for the next state polls, with both sides signalling that more political realignments could follow in the months ahead.