Guwahati, April 9 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a strong attack on the Congress on Thursday, accusing the party of using "desperate and low-level tactics" by involving popular singer Zubeen Garg in electoral politics.
Addressing reporters after the polling, Sarma alleged that the Congress had "gone too far" by using Zubeen Garg's image at polling booths to influence voters.
He claimed that such actions reflected the party's weakening support base and lack of confidence among its leaders.
The Chief Minister further remarked that several leaders who recently joined the Congress have largely confined their activities to areas associated with Zubeen Garg, raising questions about their broader political outreach.
Sarma also warned that politicizing a cultural icon like Zubeen Garg could backfire on the Congress, calling it the party's "biggest curse" in the ongoing elections.
He asserted that the people of Assam would strongly respond to such moves, reiterating his confidence that the BJP-led alliance would secure a decisive mandate.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also expressed satisfaction over the high voter turnout in the ongoing Assembly elections, stating that the enthusiasm shown by voters, particularly among Hindu and indigenous communities, reflects a strong commitment to the democratic process.
Sarma said there has been a visible surge in participation among local and indigenous voters this time. He termed the development as a positive sign for democracy, adding that such active engagement strengthens the electoral system and reflects public trust in governance.
Commenting on the overall rise in voter turnout, the Chief Minister said that the increased participation is an encouraging indicator and shows that people are more aware and eager to exercise their democratic rights.
He noted that peaceful polling and enthusiastic voter response point towards a vibrant democratic culture in the state.
Sarma also exuded confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance’s prospects, reiterating his earlier claim that the coalition would secure more than 90 seats in the 126-member Assam Assembly. He said that the response from voters across constituencies suggests a clear mandate in favour of the ruling alliance.
The Chief Minister further said that the higher turnout would ultimately benefit the democratic framework and ensure a stronger, more representative government.
He added that the final outcome will reflect the aspirations of the people, as Assam witnessed one of its most participative elections in recent years.
Assam recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in a Legislative Assembly election on Thursday, with an impressive 85.38 per cent polling, according to the Election Commission of India.