Polling for the Assembly elections ended on a high note as Assam recorded a strong voter turnout of 84.42 per cent by 5 pm, according to the Election Commission of India. The figure is among the highest seen in recent years, reflecting strong public participation across the state.
South Salmara-Mankachar recorded the highest turnout at 94.08 per cent, while West Karbi Anglong reported the lowest at 72.94 per cent. With over 2.51 crore registered voters and 31,486 polling stations, including several women-managed booths in districts like Dibrugarh, the scale of the exercise was significant.
The election sees a direct contest between the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Congress-led Asom Sonmilito Morcha (ASM). The NDA includes the BJP (89 seats), Asom Gana Parishad (26 seats), and Bodoland People’s Front (11 seats). The opposition bloc comprises Congress, Raijor Dal, Assam Jatiya Parishad, and Left parties, while the AIUDF is contesting independently in some areas.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is seeking a third consecutive term from Jalukbari. His campaign focused on development, welfare schemes, and cultural issues. On the other side, Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi, contesting from Jorhat, led the opposition campaign. He said, “This is not Himanta’s Congress versus ours.. it is the Congress of Tarun Gogoi’s ideals versus a party that has lost its soul.”
Several key leaders played important roles in the campaign. These include Atul Bora, Hagrama Mohilary, Akhil Gogoi, Lurinjyoti Gogoi, and Badruddin Ajmal. Major battleground seats include Jalukbari, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dispur, Bihpuria, and Tamulpur.
Voting began at 7 am and saw steady participation throughout the day despite light rain in some areas. Turnout reached 17.9 per cent by 9 am, 38.92 per cent by 11 am, 59.63 per cent by 1 pm, and 75.91 per cent by 3 pm. Voters from all sections, including elderly citizens, women, and first-time voters, took part in large numbers.
Key issues in the election include floods, unemployment, evictions, and concerns around NRC and CAA. While the BJP highlighted development and governance, the opposition focused on alleged failures and public grievances. Nearly 29 per cent of the electorate comprises young voters, making them a crucial factor.
Counting of votes will take place on May 4.
