Congress losing support in Barak for opposing 'CAA': MLA Rajdeep Gowala who is joining BJP

GUWAHATI: Rajdeep Gowala, the MLA from Lakhipur in Barak Valley of Assam, has hinted that he has jumped ship from the Congress to the BJP due to the former's opposition to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. Slamming his former party for its "lack of vision", Gowala asserted that he will be joining the rival BJP camp after a go-ahead from the party's leadership.

In October last, Rajdeep Gowala had been suspended by the Congress for a period of six years for "anti-party" activities. "The Congress president has approved the proposal of the expulsion of Rajdeep Gowala, MLA, Assam, from the party for a period of six years for indulging in anti-party activities," KC Venugopal, AICC general secretary (Organisation), said in a statement.

Gowala has informed that he has met BJP President Ranjeet Dass to join the BJP. He said, "I have asked to join the BJP and have sought primary membership. I am willing to serve the party in any capacity that they choose for me."

The MLA further added that "developmental works" initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been the impetus for him wishing to join the BJP. "I also wish to be a part of this journey toward development", he said, adding that the BJP's schemes will ensure that it achieves its target of winning 100+ Seats in this election.

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The MLA also added that he has sought to leave the Congress as it "lacks vision." "I do not wish to be part of a party that does not have a vision," he asserted.

Gowalla also added that there are misgivings about the Congress's alliance with the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF). "Moreover, people in the Barak support the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The Congress' opposition to the Act has triggered resentment against the party," he added.

Amid intense speculation, Congress MLAs Ajanta Neog and Rajdeep Gowalla have all but ascertained their entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Another MLA -- Roselina Tirkey of Sarupathar -- has also been caught hobnobbing with the saffron party's leaders in her Home Constituency.

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