‘22 Seats Can’t Decide Assam’s Future’: Karim Uddin Barbhuiya Defends Exit from AIUDF

GUWAHATI: Sonai constituency MLA Karim Uddin Barbhuiya has announced his decision to part ways with the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), triggering fresh political developments in Assam ahead of the upcoming electoral battle.

In a resignation letter dated March 5, 2026, addressed to AIUDF President Badruddin Ajmal, Barbhuiya formally tendered his resignation from the party’s primary membership. In the letter, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the party under Ajmal’s leadership and described his association with AIUDF as a valuable experience. He also sought good wishes as he embarks on a “new chapter of public service.”

However, even as Barbhuiya submitted his resignation, the AIUDF Central Committee issued a suspension order against him. The party stated that it had been closely monitoring his activities, which it described as controversial and detrimental to the party’s interests.

According to the order signed by AIUDF General Secretary (Administration) and MLA Hafiz Bashir Ahmed, Barbhuiya’s actions were classified as anti-party activities that tarnished the party’s reputation. The order cited violations under specific articles of the party constitution and suspended him from the party’s membership for six years.

In a similar development, AIUDF also suspended Abdul Aziz, MLA from the 05 No. Badarpur LAC and Sahabul Islam Choudhury, President, Sribhumi (Karimganj) District Committee, on identical grounds, alleging anti-party activities and support to an opposing political party.

Reacting to the developments, Karim Uddin Barbhuiya said it would be incorrect to describe the situation simply as his resignation, claiming that he had anticipated suspension if he stepped down.

He asserted that he has no personal conflict with the party but believes that minority communities in Assam must “move a step forward” politically. Barbhuiya pointed out that with only 22 MLAs, minority representatives cannot effectively form or break a government, and therefore need to align strategically for greater impact.

He made it clear that he intends to join the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a constituent of the NDA alliance in Assam. He said he chose AGP in the interest of minority communities and to remain “within the boundary,” suggesting a desire to work from within the ruling alliance framework. Barbhuiya further stated that he would soon send a formal letter to AGP President Atul Bora seeking to join the party, and that he would join if accepted.

Dismissing speculation that his move was driven by ticket aspirations, Barbhuiya claimed he is not joining AGP in pursuit of a nomination. He added that several of his supporters from Sonai are also expected to join AGP alongside him. Interestingly, even after resigning, he spoke appreciatively of AIUDF, reiterating that his decision was taken in the larger interest of society.

Barbhuiya also stated that if eviction drives are found to be lawful, he would support them, but would oppose them if they are illegal. He extended his best wishes to the Congress candidate and revealed that he has already signed in support of Pramod Boro, along with Zakir Hussain Laskar.

It may be mentioned that the political shift by the Sonai MLA is expected to have a significant impact on minority politics in the Barak Valley region, particularly as Assam heads toward a crucial electoral phase.

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