As polling concluded across Assam on Thursday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed strong confidence, stating that the outcome of the Assembly elections is “almost clear” even before the counting of votes begins.
Speaking to reporters after voting ended, Sarma said the BJP-led alliance is heading towards a decisive victory, projecting that it would secure at least 90 seats in the Assembly. He also targeted the opposition, predicting that the Congress would be limited to around 18 to 22 seats.
Referring to voter turnout trends, the Chief Minister noted that nearly 95 per cent polling was recorded in SC/ST-dominated areas, while urban and semi-urban regions saw turnout in the range of 65–70 per cent. Despite the comparatively lower figures, he claimed that urban voter participation appeared more assertive this time than in previous elections, when overall turnout ranged between 80 and 82 per cent.
Sarma attributed the higher engagement to the BJP’s extensive campaign and organisational strength. “The people of Assam have voted for development, stability and unity,” he said, expressing confidence in a strong mandate.
Taking aim at the opposition, he referred to what he termed the “three Gogois”: Gaurav Gogoi, Akhil Gogoi, and Lurinjyoti Gogoi, remarking that they would remain “worried” until the final results are declared.
In another remark, the Chief Minister said Assam’s politics does not function based on “titles,” and alleged that attempts to build narratives around such identities have not been accepted by voters. He further claimed that the idea of the “three Gogois” was aimed at creating divisions between Assamese and Ahom communities, an effort he said had been rejected by the electorate.
Sarma also made a personal observation about Gaurav Gogoi, noting that the Congress leader went to vote with his mother but not with his entire family. Drawing a comparison, he said he often appears in public with his whole family, adding that such unity sends a stronger message.
Addressing discussions around young voters, the Chief Minister said there are no “Gen Z voters” in Assam, describing the term as artificial and politically motivated. He stated that Assamese society places importance on family unity and does not encourage divisions even within households.
Questioning the use of the term, Sarma asked what it means to label someone as “Gen Z,” adding that voting decisions in Assam are often shaped through family discussions and shared understanding. He said such classifications were previously unheard of in the state and are more relevant to student politics than mainstream elections.
With a touch of sarcasm, he added that such concepts are more commonly associated with countries like Bangladesh and Nepal, not India.
Reiterating his stance, the Chief Minister said the electorate has already made its choice. “The mandate is for development, stability and unity. The results will only formalise what is already evident,” he said, as the state awaits the final outcome.
