GUWAHATI — The political landscape of the Northeast reached a historic milestone this Sunday, May 10, 2026. Himanta Biswa Sarma elected NDA leader unanimously during a high-profile meeting at the Assam Assembly complex. This decision paves the way for the veteran politician to return as the Chief Minister of Assam for a second consecutive term. Union Minister J.P. Nadda announced the outcome following the BJP legislature party meeting. The election confirms the continued leadership of the man often credited with the saffron party’s dominance in the region.
The atmosphere in Guwahati remained celebratory as central observers arrived for the crucial deliberations. J.P. Nadda and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attended the meeting as central observers and co-observers. During the proceedings, eight BJP legislators proposed Sarma’s name for the top post. Furthermore, the BJP’s primary alliance partners, the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF), provided their full support. Consequently, the nomination received a unanimous vote, solidifying the coalition’s unity.
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A Mandate for Development and Stability
The 2026 assembly election results reflect a massive wave of support for the ruling alliance. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a staggering 102 seats in the 126-member House. Specifically, the BJP alone won 82 seats, which is significantly above the majority mark of 64. Meanwhile, the AGP and BPF contributed 10 seats each to the final tally. This victory marks the third successive term for the NDA in the state since 2016.
Addressing the media after the meeting, J.P. Nadda highlighted the “historic mandate” given by the people. He noted that the public chose continuity and growth over opposition promises. Himanta Biswa Sarma elected NDA leader because his previous tenure focused heavily on infrastructure and social welfare. Moreover, the peace accords in the Bodoland region and the resolution of long-standing border disputes boosted the alliance’s credibility. The next step involves a formal meeting with Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya to stake a claim for government formation.
Preparations for the Swearing-In Ceremony
Following the election, Sarma and other senior NDA leaders scheduled a visit to the Lok Bhawan. They intend to meet Governor Acharya later this evening to discuss the logistics of the new government. Officials confirmed that the formal swearing-in ceremony will take place on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. The event is expected to be a grand affair at the Veterinary College Ground in Khanapara.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are likely to attend the ceremony. Additionally, several Chief Ministers from NDA-ruled states will arrive in Guwahati to witness the oath-taking. This event signifies not just a personal victory for Sarma but a consolidation of the BJP’s “Act East” policy. As Himanta Biswa Sarma elected NDA leader for the second time, expectations for “double-engine growth” remain high among the electorate.
Conclusion: Navigating the Second Term
While the victory is resounding, the new government faces immediate tasks. The administration must address the ongoing challenges of flood management and industrial diversification. However, with a two-thirds majority, Sarma enjoys a comfortable position to implement bold reforms. The transition from the first term to the second appears seamless, reflecting the party’s internal cohesion. As Assam enters this new chapter, all eyes are on May 12 when the new cabinet takes charge.