Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma cast his vote on Thursday in the state Assembly elections, expressing confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would secure a decisive mandate and return to power for a third consecutive term. Voting began at 7 am across the 126 constituencies, with polling scheduled to continue until 5 pm.

Sarma, accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and their children, exercised his franchise at the No. 15 Garal Buniyadi Lower Primary School in Jalukbari. The constituency has been represented by him since 2001. Earlier in the day, he visited the Kamakhya Temple and Doul Govinda Temple to offer prayers before heading to the polling station.

After casting his vote, the Chief Minister urged citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. He emphasized the importance of voting for continued development in the state over the next five years and expressed optimism about voter turnout despite early morning rainfall in several regions.

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Confident of the outcome, Sarma said the electorate would back the BJP-led NDA, highlighting the state’s history of strong voter participation compared to many other parts of the country. He also thanked the people of Assam for their support during his extensive election campaign across the state.

Addressing questions on campaigning in his own constituency, Sarma acknowledged that he could not devote much time to Jalukbari due to statewide responsibilities but promised to compensate with renewed efforts after the results. He said he would work with “double the vigour” for his constituents going forward.

Responding briefly to allegations made by Congress leader Pawan Khera, Sarma dismissed the claims and declined to engage further, citing Election Commission guidelines during polling hours. He stated that he would respond to political questions after voting concludes, as counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.

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