“Within Two Months Everything Will Be Clear”: Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha on Political Move

In a significant political development for Assam’s Barak Valley, North Karimganj MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha has hinted that his long-speculated entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is drawing close. 

Calling it “a big step,” Purkayastha said that several leaders in the Barak Valley were resisting his possible move, fearing it could alter existing political equations and threaten their own positions.

Speaking to reporters, Purkayastha indicated that the suspense would soon be over.

“There isn’t much time left — within the next two months everything will be clear. I will remain within the NDA. The Chief Minister will decide the rest,” he said, adding that his final decision would be made public shortly.

Background: From Suspension to Realignment

Purkayastha, once a prominent face in the Assam Congress and former PCC working president, has been on a collision course with the party since earlier this year. After proclaiming support for the BJP-led government while still in Congress, he—along with Mangaldoi MLA Basanta Das—was suspended by the party.

Following the suspension, Purkayastha openly criticised the Congress leadership, alleging the party had become excessively “pro-Mughal” and “anti-Sanatan.”

“I cannot be with this Congress, which is lenient towards Mughals but gets irritated when people talk about Sanatan Dharma and culture,” he remarked during a public appearance earlier in 2024.

His declaration came at a time when North Karimganj, located in the sensitive Barak Valley bordering Bangladesh, was witnessing escalated protests against alleged atrocities on Hindus and monks across the border. The narrative appeared to fuel Purkayastha’s ideological shift.

A Possible Political Realignment in Barak Valley

If Purkayastha formally joins the BJP, it could significantly reshape the political landscape in Barak Valley—a region often claiming neglect from successive governments. His presence would add weight to the BJP’s organisational reach in the valley, where the party has been systematically expanding its base.

Interestingly, in the recent expansion of the Himanta Biswa Sarma cabinet, two of the four new ministers hail from Barak Valley—something Purkayastha says reflects the Chief Minister’s renewed commitment to the region.

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