Dilip Saikia Takes Over as BJP Assam Unit President
Dilip Saikia Assumes Charge as BJP Assam Unit President, Replacing Bhabesh Kalita
Guwahati: Dilip Saikia, Lok Sabha MP from Darrang-Udalguri, has officially assumed charge as the president of the BJP Assam unit. The announcement was made on Friday at 12:30 pm, confirming his uncontested appointment to the top post. Saikia succeeds Bhabesh Kalita, the Rangia MLA, who held the position since 2021.
Saikia’s elevation comes after a reported last-minute decision by the BJP’s national leadership, ruling out other candidates. Among the contenders were Pallab Lochan Das, Assam cabinet minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass, and Rajya Sabha MP Rameswar Teli.
Outgoing president Bhabesh Kalita extended his congratulations to Saikia and expressed confidence in his leadership. Kalita, associated with the BJP since 1991, served in various roles, including state secretary from 2006 to 2011 and general secretary before leading the state unit.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised Saikia’s extensive political experience during the announcement. Saikia represented the erstwhile Mangaldai Lok Sabha constituency in 2019. After the 2024 parliamentary elections, he now serves as the MP for the newly constituted Darrang-Udalguri seat.
Additionally, Saikia has held prominent roles in the BJP, including serving as the national general secretary. His involvement in the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) further strengthens his grassroots connections.
CM Sarma emphasized that Saikia’s leadership will guide the party’s preparations for the 2026 assembly elections. He also mentioned a new rule barring the state BJP president from contesting the assembly polls. The move aims to ensure the president focuses entirely on organizational responsibilities.
The chief minister explained the rationale behind the leadership change. “If an MLA becomes the president, they face dual responsibilities for their constituency and the party. We consulted Bhabesh Kalita regarding his interest in contesting the 2026 elections, and he expressed willingness. Hence, we appointed Dilip Saikia to focus solely on organizational work,” CM Sarma stated.
Saikia’s appointment marks a significant transition for the BJP Assam unit as it gears up for future electoral challenges. With his vast political experience and strong organizational background, Saikia is expected to lead the party with renewed vigor and strategic vision.
Also read: Assam Cabinet Approves Key Initiatives for Development and Welfare
