Guwahati, 16 February (HS): The Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly commenced on Monday amid protests by Congress legislators demanding justice for late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg. The Congress MLAs staged a demonstration in front of the Assembly gate, seeking a fast-track trial in connection with Garg’s death on September 19, 2025.

This four-day session is the last meeting of the current Assembly ahead of the upcoming elections. Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia said the matter is currently sub judice and should not be politicised, while adding that the singer’s family has sought expeditious legal action in the case.

State Minister Pijush Hazarika outlined the session’s agenda, stating that the Governor would deliver the customary address on the opening day, followed by discussions. On the second day, the Finance Minister will present the Vote on Account (interim budget), which will also be taken up for debate before the session concludes.

Minister Nandita Gorlosa expressed hope that the final session would meet public expectations, noting that several key decisions had been taken during the tenure of the present Assembly.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA Manab Deka clarified that the Governor’s address and presentation of the interim budget form the core agenda of the session. He defended Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and criticised the Opposition’s political stance.

AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam said his party would raise several issues during the session and alleged that the government was pursuing divisive policies. He also referred to petitions being heard in the Supreme Court of India seeking an FIR against the Chief Minister and a probe by a Special Investigation Team.

With this being the final budget proceeding of the current Assembly term, heated debates are expected during the four-day session.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash