Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced during a cabinet meeting that the state is gearing up for panchayat elections in November. To ensure fair representation, they plan to conduct delimitation of all development blocks.
Sarma highlighted the need for this step, as some blocks had spread over multiple assembly constituencies after last year’s delimitation of assembly and parliamentary seats. The delimitation process is expected to conclude by August, with the voter’s list ready by September, and the polls announced in October.
The cabinet has set up a sub-committee to assess the cost of expanding the state’s flagship scheme ‘Orunodoy,’ which provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged families. In addition, an MoU with Prasar Bharati has been approved to produce a 52-episode documentary series on legendary Ahom General Lachit Barphukan, to be aired on Doordarshan national and regional channels.
Welfare Measures and Political Strategies
The cabinet also decided to issue 1.5 million new ration cards, increasing the total beneficiaries to over 28 million. In a move to express gratitude to voters, meetings will be held in 93 out of 126 assembly constituencies in July. Noting, the BJP and its allies secured more votes in these areas during the recent Lok Sabha polls. The remaining 33 constituencies will be visited to address resident grievances.
In honor of social activist Birubala Rabha, the cabinet designated May 13th as a day against superstitions and social ills. Sarma also commented on the recent Lok Sabha polls, noting the shift of Muslim votes from AIUDF to Congress.
Adding on, he highlighted concerns over communal polarization, emphasizing the need for development-focused voting rather than religious affiliations.
With Cabinet colleague Parimal Suklabaidya’s victory in the recent election, Sarma announced plans for a cabinet reshuffle before August 15th. This move aims to realign responsibilities within the government following changes in legislative representation.
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