Bodoland People's Front faces internal strife as leaders seek new alliances

Guwahati:  The Bodoland People's Front (BPF), led by Hagrama Mohilary, the former Chief Executive Member of Bodoland Territorial Council (now referred to as Bodoland Territorial Region - BTR), is encountering internal turmoil as hunger for power grows among its leaders.

Once a part of the North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) in Assam and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the center, the BPF lost power after its fallout with the BJP in 2021. The party, aligning with the Congress-led Mahajuth during the 2021 elections, suffered a significant defeat. Since then, Hagrama Mohilary has been attempting to mend relations with the BJP, but the party maintains a close association with the rival United People's Party Liberal (UPPL).

Out of power for three years, discontent is brewing within the BPF, and prominent leader Chandan Brahma is reportedly in talks with the UPPL and its ally, the ruling BJP in the state, regarding his potential shift. While informal discussions have taken place, Brahma has not commented on the matter.

Pramod Bodo, Chief of BTR and leader of UPPL, hinted at discontent within the BPF, stating that many leaders are eager to switch allegiances but are fearful of their Commander-in-Chief. Bodo expressed confidence that, with time, several leaders would join the UPPL.

Sources within the BPF confirm that, during a recent meeting, dissatisfaction was voiced among leaders who sought to solidify an alliance with the BJP ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections. However, the expected progress has not materialized, prompting some BPF members to consider joining their rival political party.