Guwahati, May 4: With the BJP-led NDA securing a decisive victory in the Assam Assembly elections, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday dismissed suggestions that the controversy surrounding Zubeen Garg influenced voter behaviour.
Addressing the media after the results, Sarma said the issue—widely debated in the run-up to the polls—did not affect the electoral mandate. While sections of the opposition expected it to sway voters, he said, it ultimately failed to resonate on the ground. Instead, he argued, attempts to foreground such issues may have alienated the electorate.
Thanking the people of Assam, the chief minister said the outcome reflects continued public trust in his government. He noted that the NDA had set a target of around 100 seats, adding that the results have broadly aligned with those expectations.
Sarma also criticised what he described as a selective narrative around “Gen-Z” candidates, alleging that the label was largely used for opposition faces, while younger BJP leaders, including Rupali Langthasa, did not receive similar attention.
On identity politics, the BJP leader said attempts to divide Assamese society along caste, religion or surnames would not succeed, emphasising the state’s diverse social fabric.
Turning to the opposition’s performance, Sarma claimed their representation would be limited, particularly among Hindu legislators. He also indicated that leaders from other parties remain welcome to join the BJP if they align with its ideology, citing recent entrants such as Bhupen Borah and Pradyut Bordoloi, both of whom secured victories after switching sides.
On government formation, Sarma said the date for the swearing-in ceremony is yet to be finalised. He added that the chief minister will first tender his resignation, after which the BJP legislature party will elect its leader. The formal announcement, he said, will be made by state BJP president Dilip Saikia.
