Guwahati : Election activity gathered momentum across Assam on Friday as senior leaders from both the ruling alliance and the opposition filed their nomination papers for the upcoming Assembly elections, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma leading the day’s high-profile filings from the Jalukbari constituency.

Sarma arrived at the nomination venue after participating in a massive roadshow that began at Khanapara Veterinary Field and culminated at the district administration office in Hengrabari. The multi-kilometre-long procession drew a large crowd of supporters and party workers.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his family members, including his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and son Nandil Biswa Sarma, as well as BJP MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi.

After filing his nomination, Sarma told reporters that several other candidates from his party are scheduled to complete the process either later in the day or on March 23. Reflecting on his electoral journey, he recalled losing his first contest from Jalukbari in 1996, but noted that he has remained undefeated from the seat since 2001.

Expressing confidence ahead of the polls, Sarma said he expects continued support from voters despite periodic changes in constituency boundaries. He added that he is balancing an intensive statewide campaign schedule with outreach efforts in his home constituency.

On the broader electoral outlook, the Chief Minister said the BJP and its allies are preparing strongly in over 100 constituencies. However, he refrained from making any early predictions, emphasising the need for peaceful and orderly polling.

Sarma is seeking another term from Jalukbari, a seat considered a stronghold for the BJP leader.

Among other key filings on Friday, BJP leader Pijush Hazarika submitted his nomination from Jagiroad and highlighted the government’s work over the past decade, expressing optimism about voter support.

Senior leaders including Ajanta Neog, Ranjeet Kumar Dass, Biswajit Daimary and Rama Kanta Dewri also completed their nomination formalities.

From the opposition camp, Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi filed his nomination from Sivasagar, appealing to voters for support. Meanwhile, Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi and Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia submitted their papers from Khowang and Nazira respectively, marking a busy day of political activity across the state.