GUWAHATI: Singer and BJP leader Simanta Shekhar on Tuesday, September 22, resigned as Chairman of the Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation and stepped down from the BJP, citing personal reasons.
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Shekhar submitted his resignation from the film corporation chairmanship to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. In a separate letter addressed to BJP Assam president Dilip Saikia, he announced his resignation from the party’s state executive committee and primary membership.
In his letter to the Chief Minister, Shekhar said he was resigning from the chairman’s post due to personal reasons. He thanked Sarma for giving him the opportunity to serve in the position and expressed gratitude for the experience and support he received during his tenure.
Shekhar also praised the Assam government’s efforts towards the development of the state’s art, culture and film sector. He wished the Chief Minister success in his efforts for the welfare and development of Assam.
In his letter to the BJP state president, Shekhar similarly cited personal reasons for leaving the party. He thanked the party’s senior leaders, colleagues and workers for the experience, respect and support he received during his association with the BJP.
Shekhar said he hoped party workers would continue to work with dedication and honesty for the welfare of the people of Assam and the development of the state.
The Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation is a government undertaking involved in supporting Assamese cinema, including film production and financial assistance to artistes.
Shekhar was appointed chairman of the corporation by the Assam government in November 2021.
The resignation comes days after Shekhar publicly reacted to remarks by BJP MLA Vijay Kumar Gupta over singer Zubeen Garg. Shekhar had urged Gupta to understand Garg’s work and contribution before commenting on the singer.