Assam Assembly Election 2026: 48-Hour Silence Period Begins Today at 5 PM – Campaigning Banned Ahead of April 9 Polling
Assam Assembly Election 2026: Silence Period Enforced from 5 PM Today as Polling Nears on April 9
Guwahati, April 7, 2026: With just two days left for polling in the Assam Assembly Election 2026, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Assam has issued a strict notification imposing the mandatory 48-hour silence period (also known as the period of silence) starting today, April 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
According to the official notification (No.ELE.67/2025/73 dated April 6, 2026), all forms of election campaigning, including public meetings, rallies, processions, vehicle rallies, and door-to-door activities, must cease completely from 5:00 PM on April 7 across the state. This measure is being enforced under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to ensure a peaceful and free voting environment on polling day.
Polling for the 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly is scheduled in a single phase on April 9, 2026. The silence period will remain in effect until the conclusion of polling on April 9.
What is Prohibited During the Silence Period in Assam Assembly Election 2026?
The Chief Electoral Officer, Assam has clearly outlined the restrictions to maintain the sanctity of the electoral process:
- Complete ban on campaigning: No public meetings, rallies, processions, or any form of election propaganda through loudspeakers, vehicles, or public gatherings.
- Ban on media and digital activities: Displaying or publishing any election-related matter, including advertisements, via print, electronic media, social media, or any other platform that could influence voters is prohibited.
- No exit polls or opinion polls: Publishing results of any exit poll, opinion poll, or any analysis regarding the prospects of candidates or parties is strictly banned during this period.
- Restrictions on candidates and parties: Political workers, candidates, and supporters must refrain from any activity that could be seen as soliciting votes.
The notification emphasizes that any violation will attract legal action as per the Representation of the People Act.
Additional Guidelines Issued for Free and Fair Polling
The official release urges all political parties, candidates, and voters to cooperate fully. It specifically directs district election officials and police to ensure strict compliance. The notification also highlights that:
- Voters should not be influenced through any inducement or pressure during the silent hours.
- Any complaints regarding violations can be reported to the nearest police station or election control room.
- Electronic and print media have been advised to avoid broadcasting content that may impact the free choice of voters.
This silence period is a standard practice in Indian elections to give voters a calm environment to make their decision without last-minute influence.
Assam Assembly Election 2026: Key Dates to Remember
- Polling Date: April 9, 2026 (Single Phase)
- Silence Period: Starts April 7, 2026, 5:00 PM
- Counting of Votes: May 4, 2026
Voters are encouraged to check their names in the electoral rolls and locate their polling stations well in advance. The Election Commission has appealed to all eligible voters in Assam to exercise their franchise on April 9 and contribute to a peaceful democratic process.
For the latest updates and official notifications regarding the Assam Assembly Election 2026, visit the official website of the Chief Electoral Officer, Assam.
Stay tuned to our website for complete coverage of Assam Assembly Election 2026, including candidate lists, constituency-wise updates, and result analysis.
This notification comes as the state gears up for a high-stakes single-phase election that will decide the next government in Assam. Political parties have been actively campaigning until the deadline, and now the focus shifts entirely to voting day.
