Assam Assembly Elections: Special Observer Appointed for Upcoming Polls

The Election Commission of India has appointed a special observer for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, set for April 9. Retired IAS officer Manjeet Singh will oversee the election process, ensuring preparedness and monitoring. Enhanced infrastructure and security arrangements have facilitated the decision to conduct the elections in a single phase. With over 74,000 police personnel and additional central forces deployed, the state is prioritizing safety and order. A dedicated social media cell has also been established to combat misinformation. The total number of registered voters stands at over 25 million, with the election process officially underway.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 16, 2026, 18:48 IST

Election Commission's Preparations for Assam Assembly Elections

New Delhi, March 16: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has designated a special observer to supervise the forthcoming Assam Assembly elections, announcing the official schedule that encompasses all 126 constituencies in the state.

Retired IAS officer Manjeet Singh has been appointed as the Special Observer for the elections, which are set to occur on April 9, as per an official statement from the Commission.

This appointment is made under the authority granted to the Commission by Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. The observer will make periodic visits to Assam to assess election readiness and oversee the electoral process.

Additionally, he will provide feedback and reports to the Election Commission for necessary actions throughout the electoral proceedings.

Assam's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Anurag Goel, will collaborate with the Special Observer, ensuring all logistical and administrative support is in place for the upcoming elections.

During a press conference in Guwahati, Goel emphasized that enhanced infrastructure and improved security measures are pivotal in conducting the Assembly elections in a single phase.

He stated, "The confidence to hold elections in a single phase stems from better infrastructure, including more buildings and bridges."

IGP (Law and Order) Akhilesh Kumar Singh, who is the nodal security officer for the elections, noted that single-phase polling necessitates extensive preparations and logistics, asserting that the current readiness surpasses previous efforts. Both civil and police administrations are fully prepared for the elections.

Singh also highlighted the positive shift in law and order, particularly with the withdrawal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from many areas of the state.

The state has requested 828 companies of central armed police forces (CAPF), with 200 companies already deployed.

Moreover, over 74,000 personnel from the Assam Police, including home guards, will be involved, as stated by the IGP. Enhanced monitoring of inter-state and inter-district borders, along with CCTV surveillance at critical locations, is also being implemented.

A total of 134 border checkpoints will be established, with both flying squads and static teams positioned for continuous monitoring.

Regarding international borders, Singh mentioned that various security agencies are responsible for their protection, and all necessary election protocols will be adhered to as per established guidelines.

A dedicated social media cell has been created by the CID, which includes a specific phone number for reporting the spread of fake news and AI-generated content that could threaten public order.

CEO Goel confirmed that the election notification has been issued following the governor's approval, marking the official start of the election process.

As of March 15, the total number of registered voters in the state stood at 2,50,21,413, with the possibility of revisions until the final date for filing nominations.