Silchar: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will seek a mandate in the 2026 Assembly elections based on its record of governance and handling of the Zubeen Garg case, while accusing opposition parties of using the late singer’s name to stoke communal sentiments.

Speaking to reporters in Silchar, Sarma said his government ensured that Garg’s body was brought back from Singapore, provided him with an honourable funeral, and launched a fair and transparent probe into his death. “We will file the charge sheet and ensure justice for Zubeen Garg,” the Chief Minister said.

He accused the Congress and its allies of attempting to use the popular singer’s name “to run a campaign against Hindus.” Sarma also alleged that Raijor Dal MLA Akhil Gogoi was “trying to ignite communal sentiments instead of engaging in constructive politics.”

However, the Chief Minister clarified that he did not want to politicise Garg’s death. “I will keep Zubeen Garg 1,000 km away from politics. I am not seeking votes in his name,” he said. “If people vote for us, it will be because we handled the matter responsibly.”

Sarma added that the BJP’s appeal in 2026 would rest on the state government’s performance and governance track record, not on emotional or religious issues.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally