Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Voter Roll Remarks Spark Statewide Political Storm in Assam

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ignited a fierce political debate after making controversial comments about the removal of a large number of voters during the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Speaking at a government event in Digboi, Sarma claimed that the exercise would identify and delete hundreds of thousands of entries he alleged were linked to illegal voting practices.

The Chief Minister argued that the revision was essential to protect the integrity of Assam’s elections, alleging that manipulation of voter lists had taken place for years. He suggested that individuals he described as “Miya” voters should not be participating in Assam’s electoral process and claimed that administrative steps were already underway to prevent what he termed misuse of voting rights.

Sarma went further by openly dismissing criticism from Opposition parties, asserting that political backlash would not deter his government from pursuing the voter list overhaul. His remarks, particularly the language used, immediately triggered sharp reactions from Opposition leaders and civil rights organisations, who accused him of targeting a specific community and undermining democratic values.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, said the Chief Minister’s statements reflected an attempt to polarise voters ahead of elections. They warned that such rhetoric could deepen social divisions and create fear among minorities. Rights groups echoed similar concerns, calling for the Election Commission to ensure that any voter revision process remains transparent, constitutional, and free from discrimination.

The BJP, however, defended the Chief Minister, maintaining that the SIR is a lawful and routine process aimed at removing ineligible entries from electoral rolls. Party leaders said safeguarding elections from irregularities is necessary for a healthy democracy and rejected allegations of communal targeting.

Later in the day, at a public gathering in Digboi’s Tingrai Stadium, Sarma broadened his political attack, criticising the Congress leadership for what he described as decades of neglect of the Northeast. He also referred to a recent cultural controversy involving the traditional gamosa, stressing that respect for regional symbols is non-negotiable.

Alongside the political messaging, the Chief Minister highlighted welfare initiatives of the BJP government. He showcased progress under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan, stating that lakhs of women across Assam have been identified for financial assistance, with many already benefiting. Cheques were distributed to thousands of women in Digboi, and achievements under the Lakhpati Baideo scheme were also cited.