Assam Assembly Elections 2026: BJP banks on organisational strength, welfare push amid anti-incumbency

BJP aims for a third term in Assam Assembly Elections 2026, leveraging governance achievements and welfare initiatives amid anti-incumbency challenges.

The ruling BJP-led NDA in Assam will enter the elections to the 126-member Assembly banking on its governance record and organisational strength, even as it faces the usual challenges of anti-incumbency and local grievances.

Seeking a third consecutive term, the BJP under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stepped up its political outreach, highlighting development initiatives, welfare schemes and peace accords, while the opposition is attempting to corner the ruling alliance on issues ranging from unemployment to alleged corruption and concerns among minorities.

The BJP has been on the rise in the state since the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and came to power in Assam for the first time in 2016 by winning 60 seats. It improved its tally to 64 in the 2021 assembly elections.

The party, which has been in power for the past decade, has sought to consolidate its position through various welfare schemes targeting different sections of society. Development projects undertaken in recent years and the signing of several peace accords with insurgent groups are also being highlighted by the party as key achievements ahead of the polls.

Mr. Sarma's assertive political style and visibility across the state are also among its strengths.

Frequent visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior BJP leaders are also expected to help the party reinforce its "double-engine government" pitch.