From BJP to AJP: Rajen Gohain Calls for End to ‘Delhi-Controlled Politics’ in Assam

Former Assam BJP president Rajen Gohain formally joined the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) on Wednesday in a programme held at the Public Works Department (PwD) building in Guwahati’s Dispur, marking what party leaders described as a “significant step toward the revival of Assamese nationalism.”

Welcoming Gohain to the party, AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi said the event holds great importance for Assam and its people.
“Today marks an important day when the people of Assam can once again stand tall and proud on their own soil. Rajen Gohain has joined the Assam Jatiya Parishad to revive the spirit of regionalism in the state,” Gogoi said while addressing the gathering at the PwD building in Dispur .

Emphasizing the need for unity and struggle, he added, “Where there is a crisis, there lies an opportunity; where there is a challenge, there is hope. This is the time to fight and to unite — and Rajen Gohain has realized this truth.”

Lurinjyoti Gogoi asserted that through a nationalist ideology, Assamese society can regain its dignity and self-respect. “From today, the political scenario of Assam will begin to change. If we continue to work with national responsibility and dedication, the flag of Assamese nationalism will one day surely fly high across the state,” he stated.

Also Read: A Turning Point Ahead? Senior BJP Leader Rajen Gohain Likely to Join AJP Tomorrow

The AJP leader said that today’s joining programme would send out a strong message to the state’s social and political life. Criticizing opportunistic politics, Gogoi remarked, “Some have turned their backs on national interest for the sake of personal gain. But very soon, similar joining programmes will be organized across every corner of Assam.”

He further added that the strength, courage, and nationalist consciousness among the people are growing each day, signaling the arrival of “better days for Assam.”

“Rajen Gohain’s experience will greatly help and guide us in the days ahead,” Gogoi said, adding that from now onwards, the party will work with full determination to uproot the politics of communalism in the state.

Meanwhile, speaking after formally joining the party, Rajen Gohain delivered a candid and emotional speech, explaining his decision to move away from the BJP after four decades of association.

“I have always worked sincerely, whichever party I belonged to. I cannot pretend or deceive anyone. Today is a sacred day according to the Hindu scriptures, and I chose this auspicious occasion to join the Assam Jatiya Parishad,” Gohain said.
He addressed questions about his decision to leave the BJP, stating, “Many are asking why I left the national party after 40 years. Some say I ran away. But I was never made an MP through anyone’s blessing—I became one on my own strength by strengthening the party at the grassroots. People have seen my work.”

‘Assam Needs Indigenous Leadership’: Rajen Gohain Slams BJP After Joining AJP

Taking a swipe at the culture of opportunism in national politics, Gohain remarked, “Some people’s hunger for power never ends. I did not come here to satisfy any personal hunger. I came to join a movement. Do not fear that I will stay only if given importance. I have seen many inconsistencies in the national party.”

Calling for unity among all communities, Gohain said, “If we truly want to protect and strengthen Assam, we must move forward together with people from all castes, tribes, and linguistic groups. The Centre, however, does not want this harmony among different language groups.”

Gohain also claimed that he had discussions with leaders from Meghalaya and Manipur, including Conrad Sangma. “In South India, the BJP is not even allowed to expand properly. When we join a national party, Assam is handed over to Delhi’s control. According to their plans, business groups from outside come and exploit our state,” he said.

He alleged that those who oppose this trend face political suppression. “If you raise your voice against it, even the Chief Minister’s chair may be at risk,” he remarked, referring to controversial businessmen and alleged interference in Assam’s economy.

Attack on BJP’s Hindutva Politics

Taking a direct dig at his former party, Gohain declared, “The BJP’s Hindutva politics is false — this kind of politics cannot last long. The BJP will never return to power again.”

He made an emotional appeal to former BJP workers, saying, “I urge all neglected and sidelined workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party to come out and join us. Let us together build a new Assam. Shoulder to shoulder, we will move forward.”

On Personal Freedom and Conviction

Expressing his strong sense of individuality, Gohain said, “I am the owner of my own self, my body, and my thoughts. I cannot tolerate anyone trying to suppress my identity or my thinking — that is why I stepped out. I could no longer remain silent.”

He further stressed that without discipline and sincerity, the Assamese nation cannot progress. “If we are not disciplined and sincere, the Assamese society can never move forward. I will follow the path of collective leadership and serve with honesty.”

Rajen Gohain Alleges Political Conspiracy in Zubeen Garg’s Death

On the death of musician Zubeen Garg, Gohain made striking comments, expressing doubts over the circumstances. “I doubt that Zubeen will get justice. Many people were with him that day. If they sent him away and watched from afar, they are responsible. Zubeen had conflicts only with one political leader, and both had spoken about it openly. His death smells of political conspiracy,” he said.

Gohain also criticized the current government, stating, “This government does not listen to us. They are running a monarchy, not a democracy. The people of Assam are searching for an alternative. They do not see the AGP as that alternative anymore.”

Speaking on the decades-old foreigners’ issue, he said, “It’s been 46 years, yet the foreigner problem remains unresolved—and I do not believe it will be solved anytime soon. But we must ensure that the problem does not worsen.”

He urged AJP workers to expand the party in the coming two months. “Time is short. We have just two months to build this party through hard work. Many people are still hesitant, thinking that joining AJP will make them scapegoats. But we must move forward,” he said.

Gohain further added, “Instead of giving Assam’s land to Adani or Patanjali, we should give it to local indigenous people — that will bring true blessings.”

Praising former BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary, he said, “I deeply respect and admire Hagrama Mohilary. He faced conflict but returned to power after five years. I believe he is a true political leader.”

Ending his speech with a note of commitment, Gohain declared, “Till my last breath, I will remain with the Assam Jatiya Parishad and work to uphold its ideals.”

It may be mentioned that the former Union Minister and a senior BJP leader Rajen Gohain had represented the erstwhile Nowgong constituency (now Nagaon) for four consecutive terms since 1999, had formally resigned from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on October 9, 2025. Expressing deep dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership in Assam, he submitted his resignation at the BJP headquarters—Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan.

Also Read: Assam: Senior BJP Leader Rajen Gohain quits party, cites dissatisfaction