Assam witnessed robust voter participation in the Assembly elections on Thursday, April 9, 2026, with nearly 75.91% turnout recorded till 3 p.m., according to official data. The elections are crucial as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) seeks a third consecutive term, while the Congress aims to regain control of the state after a decade. Polling began at 7 a.m. across all 126 constituencies, covering approximately 2.5 crore eligible voters. Despite overcast skies and intermittent rainfall in several regions, voters turned out in large numbers, reflecting strong democratic engagement. Voting is scheduled to continue until 5 p.m., and final turnout figures are expected to rise further as the day progresses.
Regional Turnout Trends and Participation of Key Leaders
Turnout figures varied across constituencies, with Chamaria in Kamrup district recording the highest participation at 84.43% till 3 p.m., while New Guwahati reported the lowest at 60.57%. Several prominent political leaders exercised their franchise during the day, adding visibility to the electoral process. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma cast his vote at Garal Buniyadi LP School in Kamrup (Metro) district, accompanied by his family members. State Congress president Gaurav Gogoi also voted in Jorhat, joined by his mother and other family members. Other notable figures who participated in the polling included Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia, Union Minister Pabitra Margherita, Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, and Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi, all of whom cast their votes in their respective constituencies.
Polling Irregularity Reported and FIR Registered
Amid largely peaceful polling, authorities reported an incident involving a video allegedly recorded inside a polling station in the Diphu constituency in Karbi Anglong district. The video, which circulated on social media, prompted the district administration to file a police complaint and initiate an inquiry into the matter. According to officials, mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside polling booths, with designated arrangements made for voters to deposit electronic devices and personal belongings before entering. Following the violation, an FIR was registered under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Election authorities have reiterated the importance of adhering to polling guidelines to ensure the integrity and transparency of the voting process.
Public Concerns, Remote Voting Suggestions, and Democratic Engagement
While the voting process continued smoothly overall, public discussions also emerged around accessibility and participation challenges. Singer Papon, after casting his vote in Guwahati, highlighted concerns that high travel costs prevent many individuals from reaching their home constituencies to vote. He suggested that alternative systems such as biometric or fingerprint-based remote voting could help increase participation, especially for those living away from their registered polling locations. His remarks reflect broader conversations around modernizing electoral participation mechanisms to ensure inclusivity. As Assam’s electorate engages actively in the democratic process, the high turnout signals strong public interest in the outcome of this closely watched election, with final results set to be announced on May 4.
