Himanta Biswa Sarma Set for Second Term as Assam's Chief Minister: What’s Next for the NDA?

Himanta Biswa Sarma Elected NDA Leader in Assam

Guwahati: Himanta Biswa Sarma has been chosen as the leader of the BJP-led NDA in Assam's assembly, setting the stage for his second consecutive term as chief minister, as announced by Union minister J P Nadda.

This marks the third consecutive term for the NDA government in Assam, following the BJP's initial victory in 2016 under the leadership of Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

The nomination of Sarma as the legislature party leader was put forth by eight BJP legislators, including outgoing ministers Ranjeet Kumar Dass, Ajanta Neog, Ashok Singhal, and Pijush Hazarika, according to Nadda.

Sarma's election was unanimously supported by the BJP's coalition partners, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People's Front (BPF).

Earlier in the day, the Assam BJP's legislature party convened to elect its leader, with alliance partners joining shortly thereafter.

Central observers, including Nadda and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, were present at the meeting.

After being appointed as the alliance leader, Sarma expressed gratitude to the people of Assam for their support in the recent elections and indicated plans to meet the governor to claim the right to form the government.

The NDA achieved a two-thirds majority in the assembly elections, with the BJP securing 82 seats, while AGP and BPF each won 10 seats in the 126-member assembly.

"This is a significant achievement for the BJP-led NDA following the historic mandate, reflecting the support for our previous government's efforts and PM Narendra Modi's commitment to Assam's progress," Sarma stated.

He emphasized that the upcoming government will strive to enhance welfare for all communities.

Sarma also expressed appreciation to the AGP and BPF for their backing during the assembly elections.

"We will now approach the Governor to present the list of our alliance's 102 MLAs and formally claim the right to govern," Sarma added.

The new government is scheduled to take the oath of office on May 12 at the Khanapara veterinary college, with the presence of the Prime Minister, Union ministers, NDA leaders, and other distinguished guests.