Assam Panchayat Polls See 70% Turnout; Re-Poll Ordered in 43 Booths After Sporadic Violence

The first phase of the Assam Panchayat Election 2025 concluded on May 2 with a voter turnout of approximately 70.19%, as per the official data released by the Assam State Election Commission. The polling, conducted from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, covered 14 districts across the state, including key regions such as Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Majuli, and Jorhat. The voter participation rate reflected a strong interest among citizens in engaging with local governance.

The election process was described by officials as largely peaceful, with polling stations operating smoothly for most of the day. Security personnel were deployed across the districts to maintain order and ensure the integrity of the electoral process. Voters arrived at polling booths steadily throughout the day, and despite hot weather conditions in some areas, participation remained robust.

However, there were a few sporadic incidents reported from certain polling stations, prompting the Assam State Election Commission to declare re-polling in 43 affected booths due to disruptions. The disturbances were not widespread, but they were significant enough to impact the credibility of polling in those specific areas.

The districts where re-polling has been mandated include Hailakandi, where 31 booths are scheduled for a re-vote, Sribhumi with 8 affected booths, Lakhimpur with 2, and Golaghat and Majuli with one booth each. The Election Commission stated that the dates for these re-polls will be announced shortly, and appropriate measures will be taken to prevent any recurrence of disturbances.

Despite these isolated incidents, the overall electoral process has been deemed successful. Election officials commended the efficiency and commitment of polling staff who managed logistics and voter flow under challenging circumstances. Security forces were also praised for maintaining law and order, helping to facilitate a safe environment for voters to cast their ballots.

The successful turnout of over 70% has been viewed as a strong endorsement of grassroots democracy in Assam. The high level of civic participation is particularly significant in a panchayat election, which plays a vital role in shaping local administration and development. The engagement of voters is seen as an encouraging sign of public trust in democratic processes at the village and district levels.

As the first phase wraps up, the focus now shifts to the re-polling arrangements and subsequent phases of the panchayat elections. The State Election Commission is expected to issue detailed guidelines and updated schedules to ensure that the remaining process is conducted without further disruptions.

Overall, the conclusion of the first phase marks an important step in the democratic process in Assam, reinforcing the state’s commitment to free and fair elections. The authorities remain vigilant to address any emerging challenges and ensure that the integrity of the panchayat elections is upheld throughout.