Assam has formally entered the mandatory 48-hour poll silence period from 5:00 pm today, bringing to a halt all forms of election campaigning across the state’s 126 Assembly constituencies. The restriction, enforced under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 will remain in force until polling ends on April 9.
During this period, public meetings, rallies, processions, door-to-door campaigning, bulk SMSes, phone calls and any election-related content on television, radio, social media, or digital platforms are strictly prohibited. The Election Commission has warned of strict action, including up to two years’ imprisonment, for any violations.
The silence period comes after weeks of intense campaigning ahead of the single-phase polling on April 9. Results will be declared on May 4. Top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Rahul Gandhi, addressed multiple rallies across the state. The campaign saw strong debates around development and identity, welfare delivery and equity, and opposition unity.
The BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), which includes the BJP, AGP, and BPF, is seeking a third consecutive term. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, contesting from Jalukbari, led the campaign focusing on “jati, mati, bheti” and governance achievements.
The party’s 31-point Sankalp Patra promised a Rs 5 lakh crore investment push, expansion of the Orunodoi scheme to Rs 3,000 per month, creation of “lakhpati baideos,” Rs 5 lakh health coverage, and eviction drives against alleged illegal infiltrators. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Sarma repeatedly raised concerns about infiltration from Bangladesh and protection of indigenous rights.
On the other hand, the opposition formed the eight-party Asom Sonmilito Morcha (ASM). Led by Congress, the alliance includes Raijor Dal, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), CPI(M), CPI(ML) Liberation, APHLC and others. The alliance aimed to prevent vote division.
A key highlight of the campaign was the “three Gogois”: Gaurav Gogoi, Akhil Gogoi, and Lurinjyoti Gogoi who held joint rallies in Upper Assam. They promised implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, ST status for six indigenous communities, cash support for women, Rs 25 lakh health insurance, and opposition to “arbitrary” evictions.
In key constituencies like Jorhat, Gaurav Gogoi faced BJP MLA Hitendra Nath Goswami. The BJP focused on tea garden areas through welfare schemes, while the opposition targeted minority voters, raising concerns about “communal polarisation.” Rahul Gandhi described the election as a fight against “hatred and corruption,” while Sarbananda Sonowal and Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted land and infrastructure work.
How 2026 differs from 2021
The 2021 elections were held during COVID-19 and saw limited physical campaigning. The opposition Mahajot alliance was already divided. The BJP won over 75 seats with strong support.
In contrast, the 2026 election saw large rallies and a more united opposition under ASM. Seat-sharing agreements helped avoid vote splits. Delimitation changed constituency boundaries and local dynamics.
Key issues also shifted. While infiltration remained important, welfare schemes, rising costs, and eviction drives became major concerns. Though some leaders shifted from Congress to BJP, the opposition gained momentum through joint campaigning. Surveys showed NEDA ahead but with close contests in several seats.
This time in 2026, the BJP/NEDA alliance remains the frontrunner. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s popularity, welfare schemes, and strong stance on infiltration have helped consolidate support. Allies AGP and BPF add regional strength. Surveys suggest NEDA could win 80–95 seats, though some issues may affect margins.
The Congress-led ASM has regained ground under Gaurav Gogoi. The alliance has reduced vote division and positioned itself as an alternative. It is targeting 35–45 seats, depending on undecided voters.
Raijor Dal, led by Akhil Gogoi, is a strong regional force in Upper Assam, focusing on land and anti-CAA issues. Smaller parties like AIUDF and AAP may influence select areas but remain limited in overall impact.
As the silence period begins, Assam’s 2.5 crore voters now prepare to decide the state’s political future. The results will show whether the BJP continues its dominance or if the united opposition can make a comeback. For now, the campaign noise has ended giving way to quiet reflection before voting day.