With the last day for withdrawing nominations over, the race for the Assam Legislative Assembly elections has entered a decisive phase. A total of 67 candidates withdrew from the contest, leaving 722 contenders in the fray across 126 seats, according to official Election Commission data.

The withdrawals concluded on Thursday (26 March) the deadline set by the poll body, trimming the initial pool of 789 eligible nominees after scrutiny.

Key withdrawals signal tactical shifts

Among those who pulled out were notable faces whose decisions could alter local dynamics:

Md Aminul Islam, erstwhile AIUDF member now with the NPP, withdrew from the Mankachar seat, reshaping prospects in a constituency known for tight margins.

Four members of the Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC)- Kamal Singh Bey (Bokajan), Mandal Enghi (Howraghat), Gulson Bey (Diphu) and Anjoshi Terang (Haflong) also exited, potentially consolidating votes for bigger blocs.

One candidate from the Gondwana Ganatantra Party and the rest independents completed the list of withdrawals.

These strategic exits, particularly by regional and independent figures, reflect evolving equations as major parties sharpen their focus on winnable seats and broader electoral narratives.

High‑profile contestants and last‑minute twists

The election lineup still features heavyweights from across the political spectrum, including:

  • Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma (BJP)
  • Congress stalwarts Gaurav Gogoi and Debabrata Saikia
  • AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal
  • Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary

Another political twist came just before the nomination deadline when Nandita Garlosa, a sitting MLA from Haflong (ST) and former BJP minister, defected to the Congress after being denied a BJP ticket. She was quickly renominated by Congress from her constituency, intensifying the contest in an already competitive seat.

BJP’s Manifesto Launch: The ruling party released its ‘Sankalp Patra’ manifesto, pledging 2 lakh jobs, implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and strong measures against issues like ‘love jihad’. This policy rollout is being positioned as a cornerstone of the BJP’s campaign to retain power.

Congress Counter‑Narrative: The opposition has launched its manifesto focused on welfare and justice issues, including a high‑profile promise to address the Zubeen Garg case within 100 days if elected.

Third‑Front Pressure: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has expanded its footprint in Assam by fielding candidates in tribal‑dominated constituencies, a move analysts say could impact Congress’ traditional vote base.

With polling scheduled on April 9 and votes to be counted on May 4, Assam’s political landscape is set for a high‑stakes battle.