Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma accuses Congress of politicising Zubeen Garg amid record 85.38% voter turnout. BJP-led alliance confident of decisive mandate as high participation signals strong democratic engagement across the state.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Indian National Congress, accusing it of resorting to “desperate and low-level tactics” by dragging popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg into electoral politics during the ongoing Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters after casting his vote, Sarma alleged that the Congress had “stooped too low” by using Zubeen Garg’s image at polling booths in an attempt to influence voters. He described the move as a sign of political desperation, claiming it reflects the party’s weakening grassroots support and lack of confidence among its leadership.
The Chief Minister further criticized the Congress for what he termed as a narrow and ineffective campaign strategy. According to Sarma, several leaders who recently joined the party have largely restricted their activities to areas associated with Zubeen Garg, raising questions about their broader political outreach across the state. He suggested that relying on the popularity of a cultural icon instead of strengthening organizational presence could prove counterproductive.
Sarma also issued a warning to the Congress, stating that politicising a respected cultural figure like Zubeen Garg could backfire and damage the party’s credibility among voters. He went as far as to call it the Congress party’s “biggest curse” in the ongoing elections, asserting that the people of Assam are politically aware and unlikely to be swayed by such tactics.
Reiterating his confidence in the ruling alliance, Sarma said the Bharatiya Janata Party-led coalition is on track to secure a decisive mandate in the 126-member Assembly. He predicted that the alliance would win more than 90 seats, citing strong voter response and support across constituencies.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the record-breaking voter turnout in the state. According to the Election Commission of India, Assam recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in a Legislative Assembly election, with an impressive 85.38 percent polling. The turnout reflects a significant surge in public participation, indicating growing political awareness and engagement among citizens.
Sarma particularly highlighted the enthusiasm among local and indigenous communities, noting that their active participation demonstrates a deep commitment to the democratic process. He described the increased voter turnout as a positive development for the state’s democratic framework, emphasizing that such engagement strengthens governance and accountability.
“The response from voters has been overwhelming,” Sarma said, adding that the peaceful conduct of polling and the high turnout signify a vibrant and mature democracy in Assam. He further remarked that the electorate’s active involvement reflects trust in the system and a willingness to shape the future of the state through democratic means.
Commenting on the broader implications of the high turnout, the Chief Minister stated that increased participation ensures a more representative government and reinforces the legitimacy of the electoral process. He expressed optimism that the final results would reflect the aspirations of the people, given the unprecedented level of voter engagement witnessed this time.
| Also Read: Nitish Kumar Rajya Sabha move signals major Bihar leadership change |
As Assam concludes one of its most participative elections in recent years, political observers believe that the outcome could significantly shape the state’s political landscape. With strong voter turnout and heightened political activity, the results are expected to offer a clear indication of public sentiment and the direction in which the state is headed.
