Guwahati, 09 April (HS): The voting process for the Assam Assembly elections concluded on Thursday largely peacefully, with polling held from 7 am to 5 pm across all 126 constituencies. While a few incidents of clashes and minor disruptions were reported at isolated locations, the overall polling for the 16th Assam Legislative Assembly remained smooth. With voting now complete, all eyes are on the counting of votes scheduled for May 4.

Voters turned out in large numbers from Sadiya to Dhubri since early morning, resulting in a record turnout. As per official data, a remarkable 84.42% voter turnout was recorded till 5 pm, breaking previous records. South Salmara-Mankachar district registered the highest turnout at 94.08%, while the five assembly constituencies in Guwahati recorded an average turnout of 76.41% by the same time.

Polling began early in the morning with long queues seen outside polling stations, reflecting strong public participation in the democratic process. However, technical glitches in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at some centres caused brief delays. Candidates contesting the elections were also seen casting their votes alongside the public at their respective polling booths.

A total of 722 candidates contested in the elections, including 663 male and 59 female candidates, along with 258 independents. Among political parties, the Indian National Congress fielded candidates in 99 seats, while the Bharatiya Janata Party contested 90 seats. Other parties in the fray included the Asom Gana Parishad, AIUDF, BPF, UPPL, Aam Aadmi Party, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M), and several regional and smaller parties.

In terms of electoral dynamics, the NDA alliance saw a change in composition this time, with the BPF joining the alliance, while UPPL stayed out. On the other hand, the Congress formed alliances with Raijor Dal and Asom Jatiya Parishad, whereas AIUDF chose to contest independently, unlike the previous election.

Among constituencies, Algapur-Katlichera and South Karimganj recorded the highest number of candidates at 15 each. Meanwhile, nine constituencies, including Rangia, Jagiroad (SC), Hojai, Naduar, Jonai (ST), Dumduma, Mahmara, Thowra and Lakhimpur, saw only two candidates each in the fray.

Out of the total 126 constituencies, 98 are general seats, while 9 are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 19 for Scheduled Tribes. Following the completion of polling, EVMs are being securely stored in strong rooms across districts.

It may be noted that the Election Commission had announced the poll schedule on March 15 for Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Alongside Assam, elections were also held in Kerala and Puducherry on April 9, along with bypolls in select constituencies of Karnataka, Nagaland and Tripura. The remaining phases in other states will conclude later this month, with counting for all scheduled on May 4.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash