Strong Voter Turnout in Assam's First Four Hours: Over 38% Recorded
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, April 9 (NationPress) Early indications from polling trends reveal a consistent voter turnout in significant areas as voting unfolded on Thursday across 126 Assembly constituencies in Assam.
As per data compiled by 11:00 a.m., Assam recorded an estimated voter turnout rate (VTR) of 38.92 percent, showcasing moderate engagement during the initial hours of polling.
Election officials observed visible queues in multiple constituencies, especially in rural regions, hinting at a gradual rise in voter participation as the day progresses.
Thursday marks a critical electoral contest in Assam, with polling taking place across all 126 Assembly constituencies. The election is primarily seen as a direct face-off between the BJP-led NDA and the Congress-led opposition coalition. The incumbent BJP, spearheaded by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, aims to clinch a third consecutive term in power, while the Congress party strives to make a comeback after losing its hold on governance in 2016.
Official statistics indicate that a total of 722 candidates are competing. Notable figures include CM Sarma, Gaurav Gogoi, president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, Debabrata Saikia, Leader of Opposition, Badruddin Ajmal, chief of AIUDF, Akhil Gogoi, leader of Raijor Dal, and Lurinjyoti Gogoi, president of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP). Polling is conducted at 31,490 polling stations spread across 35 districts.
The electorate consists of approximately 2.50 crore eligible voters, including nearly 1.25 crore women and 318 voters from the third gender category.
Among the political parties, the Congress has nominated the most candidates, totaling 99, followed by the BJP with 90. The AIUDF is contesting 30 seats, while NDA allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) have put forth 26 and 11 candidates, respectively. Other parties in contention include Raijor Dal (13), AJP (10), CPI(M) (3), APHLC (2), AAP (18), UPPL (18), Trinamool Congress (22), and JMM (16), in addition to 258 independent candidates.
The constituencies of Algapur-Katlicherra and Karimganj South have the highest number of candidates at 15 each. Conversely, nine seats—Rangia, Jagiroad (SC), Hojai, Naduar, Jonai (ST), Doomdooma, Mahmora, Teok, and Lakhipur—feature straightforward contests with only two candidates each. Out of the total candidates, 59 are women, with the Congress presenting the most at 14, followed by the BJP with 7.
Vote counting is set for May 4.