Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma initiated the BJP’s Jan Ashirwad Yatra in Dhekiajuli, marking the start of a significant campaign for the upcoming Assembly elections.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday launched the BJP’s massive public outreach programme, the Jan Ashirwad Yatra, from the premises of Gupteshwar Temple in Dhekiajuli, marking the beginning of an intensive campaign ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. Standing atop an open vehicle as the procession began, Sarma said he was “seeking the blessings of the people of Assam,” signaling the start of what the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) describes as a large-scale mobilisation drive to highlight its governance record.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by state BJP president Dilip Saikia and Union Minister Pabitra Margherita.Party leaders said the first phase of the yatra will run from February 28 to March 9, covering 34 Assembly constituencies before concluding in Rangiya.
According to party plans, the Chief Minister will interact with nearly one lakh people each day, traveling 70 to 80 kilometres daily to showcase the government’s work over the last five years, including initiatives in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and welfare delivery. The BJP, which has governed the state for the past decade, is aiming for a third consecutive term in power.
Party strategists view Assam as a crucial political gateway to the Northeast, where Sarma has played a key role in building alliances with regional forces, strengthening the party’s footprint across the region.
Campaign Themes, Development and Identity
The BJP’s messaging during the yatra blends development narratives with themes of identity and security. Sarma has repeatedly raised concerns about illegal migration and demographic changes, issues he has emphasised since assuming office. He also referred to tensions during recent land eviction drives, warning against resistance to government actions.
The campaign is expected to gain further momentum with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to visit Assam on March 13 and 14, followed by a major youth rally in Guwahati on March 15. The BJP plans to contest 103 out of the state’s 126 Assembly seats and has expressed confidence in securing a clear majority.
The opposition Indian National Congress had earlier launched its “Samay Parivartan Yatra” on February 5, positioning it as a campaign focused on alleged irregularities by the state government.
The Congress initiative is led by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi along with senior leaders Debabrata Saikia and Rakibul Hussain. The party has raised questions over land transactions and alleged closure of government schools during Sarma’s earlier tenure as Education Minister.
Polls are expected in April–May. The 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly is expected to go to the polls in April–May, though the schedule has yet to be announced by the Election Commission of India.
