Guwahati, 17 February (HS): Political parties in Assam have suggested to the Election Commission of India that the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections be conducted in one phase or at most two phases. The proposal was placed during a meeting held with the Commission’s delegation currently on a three-day visit to the state.

As political parties intensify preparations and fine-tune their strategies for the 2026 Assembly polls, the Election Commission is also reviewing arrangements to ensure smooth and peaceful conduct of the elections. During Tuesday’s meeting, most parties emphasized that polling should be completed in a single phase or limited to two phases to facilitate better management and voter participation. They also urged the Commission to fix election dates keeping the Bihu festival in mind.

The delegation was led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. The meeting was held at a city hotel in Guwahati in the presence of the Chief Electoral Officer of Assam and other senior officials. The Commission interacted with representatives of recognised national and state political parties to gather their feedback and suggestions.

Among the national parties that attended the meeting were the Aam Aadmi Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Indian National Congress. State-level parties present included the All India United Democratic Front, Asom Gana Parishad, Bodoland People's Front and United People's Party Liberal, among others.

Political parties also appreciated the special revision of electoral rolls conducted in the state and offered suggestions to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections across Assam. The Election Commission assured that it would take into account the inputs received during the consultation process.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash