Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Announces BJP Candidate List and Yatra Highlights

On the concluding day of the Jana Ashirwad Yatra, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the BJP will release its candidate list by mid-March. The yatra, which has seen significant public support, aims to seek blessings ahead of upcoming elections. Sarma also clarified that the BJP will not ally with the UPPL and discussed seat allocations in the Bodoland Territorial Region. Meanwhile, protests demanding justice for cultural icon Zubeen Garg emerged during the yatra, highlighting ongoing public concerns. This article delves into the key announcements and public reactions during this significant political event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 18:35 IST

BJP Candidate List Announcement

Guwahati/Nalbari, Mar 9: On the final day of the initial phase of the 'Jana Ashirwad Yatra' on Monday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to unveil its candidate list by mid-March.

He stated, "The BJP's candidate list will be released by the 16th or 17th. We will have a single list, and it will be finalized in just one day," during a press briefing in Bajali.

Seat Allocation in Bodoland Territorial Region

The Chief Minister further mentioned that the BJP intends to contest four seats within the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), while the Bodoland People's Front (BPF) will run for 11 seats.

"We have agreed to allow the BPF to contest 11 seats in BTR, while the BJP will only contest four," he added.

No Alliance with UPPL

Sarma clarified that the BJP will not form an alliance with the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL), stating, "UPPL may partner with BPF, but not with us. Any discussions regarding seat-sharing with UPPL will pertain to those 11 seats with BPF, as there is no room for further negotiations with the BJP."

Public Response to Jana Ashirwad Yatra

The Chief Minister's comments came as the Jana Ashirwad Yatra garnered significant public enthusiasm in the 26 No. Bajali constituency, where thousands of supporters gathered to greet him and other senior BJP officials.

The yatra commenced from the historic Bamakhata Satra, where Sarma offered prayers before addressing the crowd and seeking the people's blessings. The rally then progressed from Kenduguri towards Pathsala via National Highway 127.

Rally Highlights and Development Initiatives

Later, Sarma reached Patacharkuchi around 2 pm, where a large crowd had assembled for the rally.

In his address, Sarma explained that the yatra, which began on February 28, aims to seek the blessings of the populace ahead of the forthcoming elections.

He also emphasized the development initiatives undertaken by the BJP government over the last five years, expressing optimism that another mandate would further enhance development across the state.

Crowds and Support for BJP

Following Patacharkuchi, the procession continued towards Tihu and then to Nalbari, where large crowds gathered to welcome the yatra. "The streets are filled with people who have come out to bless the BJP," Sarma remarked while addressing supporters in Tihu.

Protests for Zubeen Garg

As the yatra passed through Tihu, a group of protesters demanded justice for Assam's cultural figure Zubeen Garg. They held placards and chanted slogans calling for "Justice for Zubeen Da" as the rally moved through the town.

One protester noted that the Chief Minister had previously promised justice, but many feel that it has been delayed.

"We have no issue with the yatras conducted by CM Sarma. Our demand is justice for Zubeen Garg, and we will not rest until it is achieved," another protester stated.