In a significant political development, Gaurav Gogoi, the Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Assam and son of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, was appointed the President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC). This move was approved by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and marks a strategic shift in the Congress’s leadership in Assam ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections.

Gogoi replaces Bhupen Kumar Borah, who led the APCC for nearly four years and had been instrumental in steering the party through challenging political waters. The official announcement was accompanied by the appointment of three new working presidents, signaling a renewed push to invigorate the party’s organisational structure in the northeastern state.

Congress leaders pushed for Gogoi’s appointment months ago

The development, however, did not occur in isolation or merely as a top-down decision. It was the culmination of a coordinated effort by senior Congress leaders in Assam, many of whom had served in Tarun Gogoi’s cabinet, and wield significant influence within the party.

In February 2025, a group of leaders including Pankaj Bora, Tanka Bahadur Rai, Mohd Nurzamal Sarkar, Rajib Lochan Pegu, and Ramprasad Sarma—all of whom have been influential political figures in Assam—collectively wrote a letter to Mallikarjun Kharge, urging him to consider appointing Gaurav Gogoi as the next state party president.

These leaders also submitted the letter to other top party officials, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal. According to reports, they also personally met with senior AICC functionaries, pressing for a leadership overhaul and making a strong case for Gogoi’s elevation.

Why did they endorse Gaurav Gogoi?

The endorsement wasn't merely based on legacy or familial political lineage. In their letter, the senior leaders highlighted that Gaurav Gogoi had played a significant role in reconnecting the Congress with the grassroots in Assam, a state where the party has struggled to hold ground in recent years. They pointed out that he enjoyed widespread support among key social and demographic communities, including but not limited to the Ahom community.

They emphasized that his grassroots organisational experience, national exposure, and strategic thinking could serve to unite the fractured state unit, bolster the morale of the cadre, and revitalize the party in time for the crucial 2026 state elections.

One of the key lines in the letter reportedly read:

“In the light of these observations, we fervently urge you to appoint Gaurav Gogoi as the state president of the Indian National Congress in Assam. This step would not only energise and motivate party workers but also instil a renewed sense of purpose and commitment as we prepare for the crucial 2026 assembly elections.”

Timing and political implications

The timing of this announcement is especially critical as it comes amidst intensifying political rhetoric in the state, particularly with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launching scathing attacks against Gaurav Gogoi. In recent public statements, Sarma alleged that Gaurav had visited Pakistan for “ISI training”—a statement that triggered outrage and backlash from Congress leaders nationwide.

Further, Sarma also targeted Gogoi’s wife, claiming she had links with a Pakistani NGO. These allegations, although unverified and widely seen as politically motivated, have fueled a bitter political rivalry between the Congress and BJP in Assam.

In this context, Gaurav’s elevation is being viewed by analysts as the Congress’s way of pushing back against Sarma’s dominance in the state narrative. The party appears to be betting on youthful leadership, strong oratory, and political legacy, combining both the old guard and new-age strategy.

Historical resonance: Like father, like son

Gaurav Gogoi’s appointment carries historical and emotional significance. Nearly three decades ago, his father Tarun Gogoi held the same post. Tarun Gogoi later became a three-time Chief Minister of Assam and is widely credited for reviving the Congress party in the state during the 2000s.

Gaurav, while addressing party workers and the public following his appointment, acknowledged the legacy and contributions of his father. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:

“Former PCC President Shri @BhupenKBorah led the party from the front and made a tremendous contribution. I would not have been here without the guidance of my parents and the support of my family, especially my wife and children.”

He further added:

“I look forward to working with my seniors and colleagues. In the days to come I will seek the blessings of the people of Assam. I am confident that together we can create a better future for our state. Joi Ai Axom! Jai Hind!”

Bhupen Borah’s role and transition

Outgoing president Bhupen Borah has so far maintained a dignified silence and offered his support for Gaurav’s leadership. His nearly four-year tenure saw the party attempting to stay afloat amidst successive electoral challenges and a growing BJP presence in Assam.

Gogoi’s statements also reflected mutual respect, acknowledging Borah’s hard work and leadership. There appears to be a smooth leadership transition, at least on the surface, which may aid the Congress in presenting a united front against the BJP in the run-up to 2026.

Strategic team-building with working presidents

Alongside Gaurav Gogoi’s appointment, the AICC also announced three new working presidents for the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee. While their names were not officially disclosed in the initial press release, sources suggest that they were chosen to reflect social, ethnic, and regional diversity in Assam.

This move is indicative of a broader strategy where multiple community groups feel represented, thereby helping the Congress regain lost ground, especially in tribal and minority regions.

Looking ahead: Challenges and opportunities

While the support from senior leaders helped catapult Gaurav Gogoi into the position of APCC President, his path forward will be anything but easy.

The Congress is currently grappling with internal factionalism, defections, and a resurgent BJP machinery under CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. Moreover, the state’s political climate is volatile, with communal and regional sentiments often playing a decisive role in elections.

However, with his national experience, eloquence in Parliament, and deep roots in Assam, Gogoi offers a fresh yet familiar face to both Congress workers and the electorate.

The 2026 Assam Assembly elections will now serve as a litmus test—not only for the Congress party’s organisational recalibration—but also for Gaurav Gogoi’s leadership credentials.

In summary, yes, Congress leaders did play a critical role in Gaurav Gogoi’s appointment as Assam Congress president. Their written request, personal lobbying, and strategic timing set the stage for a leadership change intended to rejuvenate the party’s state unit. Now, it remains to be seen whether this new leadership can convert internal unity into electoral success.

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