Agartala, Aug 24: In a significant turn of events ahead of the upcoming by-elections in Tripura, the opposition Congress has been dealt a blow as Billal Mia, a senior leader and former Minister, announced his departure from the party and formally joined the ruling BJP.
The official joining ceremony took place in Kulubari, Sepahijala district, just before the by-elections for two seats in Tripura.
Billal Mia, a well-known figure within the Congress, had served as its working president. However, he made a notable decision to align himself with the BJP, receiving a warm welcome from prominent BJP figures including Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, state BJP President Rajib Bhattacharjee, ministers, and other leaders of the party.
In a letter addressed to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday, the 63-year-old leader expressed his decision to sever ties with the Congress. He had been associated with the party for over four decades, holding various positions within its ranks.
Billal Mia’s frustration reportedly stemmed from the Congress’ failure to nominate him as a candidate in the previous assembly election held on February 16, as well as the upcoming September 5 by-election for the Boxanagar Assembly constituency. Notably, this constituency holds prominence as it largely represents the Muslim community. The by-election was necessitated by the unfortunate passing of sitting CPI-M MLA Samsul Haque on July 19 due to a cardiac arrest.
In response to Mia’s departure, Tripura Pradesh Congress President Asish Kumar Saha took decisive action on Wednesday by expelling him from the party for a duration of six years. The reason cited for this action was his alleged involvement in ‘anti-party’ activities.
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