Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly defended Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the ongoing row regarding the revision of electoral rolls. He stated that criticism of the CEC reflects the frustration of the opposition. Sarma addressed a press conference to explain how decisions are made within the poll panel.
Sarma explained that decisions of the Election Commission are taken collectively and not by any single person. He noted that the CEC cannot make independent decisions without the involvement of other Election Commissioners.
Every decision requires a majority opinion or consensus according to the constitutional framework. He further added that targeting the CEC is part of a political campaign.
Apart from the election panel issue, the Assam Chief Minister also announced several major decisions taken by the state cabinet.
The cabinet approved the Assam Muslim Marriage Registration Compulsory Rule, 2026. Beneficiaries of the Orunodoi scheme will receive Rs 1,500 in October for Durga Puja instead of the usual Rs 1,250.
A 20 percent Durga Puja bonus was also approved for tea gardens under the Assam Tea Corporation Limited. The state government decided to take a loan from the Asian Development Bank for wetland and fishery development. Additionally, the cabinet approved a major investment by JK Lakshmi Cement and announced dates for upcoming local council elections.
