Assam Election 2026 Voting Begins: Over 2.49 Crore Voters Decide Fate of 722 Candidates in Single-Phase Polls Amid Tight Security

Assam Election 2026: Voting Commences at 7 AM with Strict Security; 2.49 Crore Voters to Elect 126 MLAs

Guwahati, April 9, 2026: The much-awaited Assam Election 2026 has officially begun. Polling for the Assam Legislative Assembly elections started promptly at 7:00 AM today, Thursday, across all 126 assembly constituencies in a single phase. This historic single-phase poll marks a significant milestone for the state, with voters turning out in large numbers despite early morning hours.

Authorities have set up a total of 31,890 polling stations throughout Assam to facilitate smooth voting. Elaborate security arrangements, including tight cordons and deployment of central and state forces, ensure a peaceful electoral process. Voters began queuing at booths well before the official start time, reflecting high enthusiasm in this democratic exercise.

In the Assam Election 2026, more than 2.49 crore voters (over 24.9 million) are eligible to cast their ballots. These voters will decide the political fate of 722 candidates contesting for 126 seats. The contest features a diverse mix: 211 candidates from national parties, 116 from regional parties, 137 from registered unrecognized parties, and a whopping 258 independents.

Among the 722 candidates, only 60 are women, while 662 are men. The Indian National Congress has fielded the highest number of female candidates this time, aiming to boost women’s representation in the Assam Assembly.

This Assam Election 2026 is crucial as it will shape the state’s governance for the next five years. Results are scheduled for counting on May 4, 2026, with the entire process expected to conclude by May 6.

Detailed Breakdown of Candidates in Assam Election 2026

The candidate profile in Assam Election 2026 showcases the vibrant multi-party democracy of the state:

National Parties: 211 candidates
Regional Parties: 116 candidates
Registered Unrecognized Parties: 137 candidates
Independents: 258 candidates

Total: 722 candidates

The presence of a large number of independents indicates strong local aspirations and possible anti-incumbency factors in several constituencies. Major alliances, including the ruling NDA (led by BJP) and opposition fronts, have fielded strong candidates across urban, rural, and tribal-dominated areas.

Women candidates constitute about 8.3% of the total, a figure that political analysts are watching closely. Congress’s lead in nominating women reflects efforts to address gender gaps in Assam politics.

Security Arrangements and Polling Process for Assam Polls 2026

The Election Commission of India and Assam administration have left no stone unturned for the Assam Election 2026. Strict security measures are in place at all 31,890 polling stations to prevent any untoward incidents.

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Police personnel are deployed extensively.
CCTV surveillance and webcasting at sensitive booths.
Special focus on vulnerable and remote areas, including hills and char (riverine) regions.

Voters are advised to carry their EPIC (Elector’s Photo Identity Card) or other approved documents like Aadhaar, driving license, or passport for identification. Polling will continue till 6:00 PM, after which EVMs will be sealed for safe custody.

Incidents Reported on Polling Day in Assam Election 2026

While the overall process has started smoothly, a few technical and security-related issues have come to light:

EVM Malfunctions and Delays:

In Tinsukia constituency, polling station number 120 reported an EVM glitch, delaying the start of voting.
In Bokajan constituency, voting is yet to commence at Sukhani English Primary School.
Similar delays reported at Sonari Bhajo High School polling station.

Election officials are on the ground to resolve these technical issues quickly. The Commission has assured that auxiliary measures and replacement EVMs are available to minimize disruptions.

Violence and Attack on Activist:
In a concerning development ahead of and during the early hours of Assam Election 2026, Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) General Secretary Bidhyut Bikash Saikia was allegedly attacked and seriously injured.

KMSS President Akhil Gogoi strongly condemned the incident, blaming it on “Kushal Duwari’s goons” linked to BJP. Gogoi claimed that Jayanta Hazarika alias Kushal Duwari and his associates carried out the brutal physical assault.

Gogoi also mentioned an attack on another youth named Pranjit Gogoi. He has filed an FIR at Sivasagar Police Station against Bakul Duwari, Tailya Gogoi, Prince Phukan, Dipankar Sandikai, and others, demanding their immediate arrest.

This incident has raised questions about the law and order situation in the run-up to the polls. Opposition voices are demanding a thorough investigation to ensure free and fair elections.

Voter Turnout and Early Trends in Assam Assembly Election 2026

Early reports suggest encouraging voter turnout in many urban and semi-urban areas. Long queues were visible at several booths in Guwahati, Jorhat, Silchar, Dibrugarh, and Tezpur.

Key factors influencing voters in this Assam Election 2026 include:

Protection of indigenous identity and issues related to infiltration/illegal immigration.
Development, employment, and infrastructure.
Flood control and agriculture-related concerns.
Women’s safety, education, and healthcare.
Performance of the incumbent government versus opposition promises.

Political analysts believe the battle will be intense in upper Assam, lower Assam, and Barak Valley regions, with regional parties and independents playing potential kingmaker roles in hung scenarios.

Historical Context and Significance of Assam Election 2026

The 2026 polls come after the 2021 elections where the BJP-led alliance secured a comfortable majority. This time, the single-phase format is expected to test organizational strength of all parties.

With over 2.49 crore voters and 722 candidates, the Assam Election 2026 is one of the largest democratic exercises in Northeast India this year. The high number of independents and women candidates adds an interesting dimension to the contest.

The Election Commission has appealed to all political parties and candidates to maintain peace and adhere to the Model Code of Conduct till the results are declared.

What Happens Next in Assam Polls 2026?

Polling continues till 6 PM today (April 9, 2026).
EVMs will be stored securely under heavy guard.
Vote counting on May 4, 2026.
New Assam Legislative Assembly to be constituted thereafter.

Voters who are yet to cast their votes are urged to reach their assigned polling stations at the earliest. Senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women can avail priority voting facilities.

Live Updates and How to Check Your Polling Booth for Assam Election 2026

For real-time updates on Assam Election 2026:

Visit the official CEO Assam website or National Voters’ Service Portal.
Use the Voter Helpline App for booth location and candidate details.
Follow authorized news sources for verified information.

In case of any complaints regarding booth-level irregularities, voters can contact the District Election Officer or use the cVIGIL app.

This Assam Election 2026 is not just about electing 126 MLAs — it is about the aspirations of over 2.49 crore people who want a stable, progressive, and inclusive Assam. The coming hours and days will reveal the mood of the electorate through turnout percentages and eventual results.

Stay tuned to our website for minute-by-minute updates, constituency-wise analysis, and expert opinions on the Assam Assembly Election 2026. Your vote matters — exercise your democratic right responsibly.