Guwahati : Assam recorded an impressive voter turnout in the ongoing Assembly elections on Thursday, with polling figures crossing 80 per cent , signalling robust public participation across the state.

According to official data, 80.91 per cent of eligible voters had exercised their franchise by the afternoon, placing Assam among the leading states in terms of polling percentage in the current election cycle. The steady turnout trend throughout the day points to a strong electoral response in what is being seen as a closely watched political contest.

Polling was conducted across all 126 Assembly constituencies, covering an electorate of over 2.50 crore voters. A total of 722 candidates are in the fray, making it one of the most expansive electoral exercises in the state’s recent history.

From early morning, voters queued up outside polling stations in both urban and rural areas, contributing to the consistent rise in turnout figures. Election authorities maintained strict security arrangements, with central forces and state police deployed extensively to ensure smooth and peaceful voting.

In several districts, including Kamrup, polling concluded in phases with officials promptly securing electronic voting machines following the end of voting. Authorities reported that the process was largely peaceful, with no major disruptions affecting the overall conduct of the polls.

The high turnout is being viewed as a key indicator of voter engagement, with both the ruling BJP-led alliance and opposition parties closely tracking participation trends. Analysts suggest that such strong polling could play a decisive role in shaping the electoral outcome.

With voting continuing till evening in remaining areas, officials expect the final turnout figure to climb further, potentially setting a new benchmark for Assembly elections in the state.

The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.

Guwahati, April 9: With polling underway across Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma cast his vote on Thursday at a polling station in Azara’s Gorol area, accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and their two children.

After exercising his franchise, Sarma urged voters to turn out in large numbers, emphasising the significance of the electoral mandate. “Like every other citizen, casting my vote is my duty. Today’s decision will determine the future of the state for the next five years. I urge the people of Assam to come out and vote for development,” he said.

Reflecting on his campaign in the Jalukbari constituency, which he has represented since 2001, Sarma acknowledged limited personal canvassing in the run-up to polling. He credited party workers and local residents for carrying forward the campaign. “Even though I couldn’t campaign much, BJP workers and the people of the constituency ensured outreach. After the elections, we will work for the betterment of the constituency,” he added.

Taking a swipe at the Indian National Congress, Sarma dismissed allegations levelled by its leaders. Responding to remarks by Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera regarding his wife, the Chief Minister said he saw no reason to engage. “Why should I reply to him?” he remarked, also describing Khera as a “bhagora”.

He declined to address further political questions during polling hours, citing Election Commission norms. “I don’t want to break any rules and have FIRs registered unnecessarily. I will respond to all questions after 5 pm,” he said.

Sarma also reiterated his decision to stay away from visiting his constituency during polling, stating that the move was aimed at ensuring a free and fair voting process without influencing voters.

Expressing confidence in voter participation, he pointed to Assam’s consistently high turnout. “Around 78-80% voting is usually recorded in Jalukbari, and across the state too turnout remains high compared to other regions,” he noted.

The interaction briefly turned tense when a reporter questioned his choice of language against the Opposition during the final phase of campaigning. Sarma responded sharply, defending his remarks and asserting that his language was “better than that of the organisation” the journalist represented, before moving on.

Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister visited Kamakhya Temple and Dol Govinda Temple to offer prayers before casting his vote.

Commenting on the weather, Sarma said early morning showers had briefly affected voter enthusiasm, but conditions improved as the day progressed. “The weather affected the mood briefly, but it cleared up soon and there is enthusiasm among voters,” he said.

Polling across Assam began at 7 am and will continue till 5 pm, with the results set to shape the state’s political course for the next five years.