Why Himanta Biswa Sarma May Return as Chief Minister of Assam in 2026: A Detailed Analysis
By: Dimapur Today Politics Desk
Published: August 4, 2025
As the political landscape of Assam begins to shape up ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, one question dominates public and political discourse: Will Himanta Biswa Sarma return as Chief Minister for a second term?
Based on his administrative record, political capital, grassroots strength, and recent public surveys, there is growing evidence to suggest that Himanta Biswa Sarma is well-positioned to secure a second consecutive term as Assam’s Chief Minister.
1. Strong Leadership and Public Approval
According to the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation (MOTN) poll in early 2025, Sarma’s personal approval rating rose from 51% to 55.4%, making him one of India’s most popular BJP chief ministers. His leadership during crises like floods, his regular public appearances, and his clear messaging have helped him build a direct rapport with citizens.
He is often seen as decisive, assertive, and accessible, which contrasts with more bureaucratic leadership styles of the past.
2. Visible Development and Infrastructure Push
One of the biggest achievements of Sarma’s term has been the rapid acceleration of infrastructure projects across the state:
- New medical colleges increasing capacity from 6 to 25 institutions.
- Urban mobility projects such as the Guwahati ring road and flyovers.
- A ₹65 crore administrative hub launched in Dibrugarh to decentralize governance.
- Under Advantage Assam 2.0, 11 five-star hotel projects approved in Guwahati.
These initiatives have not only improved services but also shaped a perception that Assam is progressing under Sarma’s leadership.
3. Administrative Efficiency and Digitisation
Sarma’s government has been credited with:
- Streamlining online public services,
- Digitizing departments,
- Improving grievance redressal mechanisms,
- Reducing red tape and middlemen.
This has led to improved transparency and trust among the public, especially in urban areas.
4. Dominance Within BJP and Northeast Politics
As the Convener of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), Sarma has expanded BJP’s influence across the Northeast. His political acumen is recognized nationally, and within the Assam BJP, he holds undisputed control.
This allows him to run both governance and election strategies smoothly, without major internal conflicts.
5. Grassroots Strength and Rural Mandate
In recent panchayat and local body elections, the BJP secured:
- Over 76% of Zila Parishad seats
- More than 66% of Anchalik Panchayat positions
This shows that Sarma maintains significant support in rural Assam, which constitutes a large portion of the state’s electorate.
6. Opposition Weakness and Fragmentation
While Congress, led by Gaurav Gogoi, has gained momentum, the opposition remains divided. In a 2025 VoteVibeLLP survey, Sarma leads Gogoi in CM preference by 0.8%.
Unless the opposition unites behind a strong candidate with a clear vision, the fragmented vote will likely benefit the BJP again in 2026.
7. Strategic Governance Reforms and Public Messaging
Sarma has framed his government around being:
- Focused on economic and industrial growth,
- Firm on transparency and law enforcement,
- Proactive in women’s welfare and youth employment.
He is also known for frequent press briefings, interactive public communication, and use of social media to explain government actions, making him appear more accountable and connected.
8. Handling of Crises and Policy Continuity
Whether it was flood management, health emergencies, or administrative bottlenecks, Sarma is perceived as a hands-on crisis manager. His term has also seen long-term continuity in key policies across education, healthcare, and industry.
Such consistency appeals to voters seeking stability and gradual progress over abrupt change.
Conclusion: All Signs Point to a Likely Second Term
Despite rising anti-incumbency sentiments among youth and select urban groups, Sarma’s broad administrative track record, control over political machinery, and continued popularity across rural and middle-class segments make his return likely.
Unless the opposition mounts a unified and issue-based campaign, Himanta Biswa Sarma is currently on track to secure a second term as Chief Minister of Assam in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Dimapur Today will continue to track and report developments as Assam moves toward this key election.
