Assam Elections 2026: High Voter Turnout Despite Rainy Weather

On April 9, Assam witnessed a significant voter turnout of 84.42% during the elections, despite adverse weather conditions. Key constituencies like Dalgaon and Jaleshwar led in participation, while urban areas like Guwahati showed lower engagement. Voters expressed concerns over development and governance, and polling centers created a festive atmosphere. Minor disruptions were reported, but overall, the electoral process remained largely peaceful. This election marks a notable increase in public participation compared to previous years, reflecting a growing commitment to democratic responsibilities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 9, 2026, 18:29 IST

Polling Day Overview

People wait in queues before casting their votes at a polling station in Guwahati. (Photo:PTI)

Guwahati, April 9: The skies were grey and rain-soaked on polling day across Assam on April 9, yet the weather did not deter voters from coming out in significant numbers to influence the state's political landscape.

Voting officially wrapped up at 5 pm, but long lines remained outside numerous polling stations well into the evening, showcasing the voters' enthusiasm.

By 6 pm, the Election Commission of India reported an impressive turnout of 84.42%, exceeding the 82.04% seen in the 2021 Assembly elections, indicating a surge in public engagement in this closely monitored election.

Several constituencies experienced notably high participation rates, especially in lower Assam and central districts.

Leading the turnout were Dalgaon (94.57%), Jaleshwar (94.31%), Srijangram (94.33%), Mankachar (94.08%), and Golakganj (93.42%), reflecting strong voter enthusiasm.

Following closely were Laharighat (93.44%), Chenga (93.38%), and Goalpara East (92.79%), demonstrating a robust turnout trend across various regions.

The highest participation was primarily concentrated in:

Dhubri and Goalpara region (Golakganj, Jaleshwar, Mankachar, Goalpara East)
Barpeta belt (Chenga, Pakabetbari, Mandia)
Darrang–Morigaon stretch (Dalgaon, Laharighat)

These areas consistently surpassed the 90% turnout mark, forming the core of high participation in this phase.

Guwahati Constituencies Show Lower Turnout

In contrast, constituencies within the Guwahati region reported lower turnout rates:

Dimoria: 80.52%
Dispur: 73.98%
Guwahati Central: 75.23%
Jalukbari: 80.83%
New Guwahati: 71.27%

Urban voting patterns remained subdued compared to rural areas, continuing the trend of lower participation in metropolitan constituencies.

The overall data reveals a distinct rural-urban divide, with rural and riverine constituencies driving the state's high polling percentage, while urban segments in Guwahati lagged behind.

Voter Participation Trends

Earlier in the day, voter participation steadily increased, reaching 59.63% by 1 pm, as long queues continued at polling stations despite intermittent rain in various districts.

Voters expressed that development, governance, and employment were their primary concerns, with many viewing voting as a crucial democratic duty.

Several polling centers created a festive atmosphere with decorations, selfie spots, and special arrangements for elderly and differently-abled voters, including wheelchair assistance.

Minor Disruptions Reported

The polling process in Assam was largely peaceful, with only sporadic incidents of poll-related violence and EVM issues, which officials quickly addressed.

A tragic event occurred in Sonitpur’s Naduar constituency, where a polling official passed away while on duty, and a clash between political workers in Golaghat was swiftly managed by security forces.

According to police reports, nine individuals were detained in connection with election-related violence at three locations: Tamulpur, Sivasagar, and Golaghat, by 1 pm.

Authorities stated that these incidents had minimal impact on the overall voting process.

A Large-Scale Electoral Exercise

Prominent leaders and candidates participated in the voting process across the state, with visible enthusiasm in districts like Hailakandi, Chirang, Biswanath, and Kokrajhar, where early queues formed.

From a mere 17.93% turnout at 9 am, polling gained momentum throughout the day across all 126 constituencies, involving over 2.49 crore voters and 722 candidates.

Initial trends suggested a smooth and orderly process, with voter turnout expected to increase further as the day progressed.