By Firstdespatch Desk Feb 18, 2026
Guwahati, Feb 18 (FD) The Election Commission of India on Tuesday conducted a comprehensive review of preparations for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections during a high-level meeting held in Guwahati. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar chaired the meeting along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi as part of a two-day review visit to the state.
On the first day of the visit, the Commission met representatives of recognized national and state political parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, All India United Democratic Front, Asom Gana Parishad, United People's Party Liberal, and Bodoland People's Front.
Each party was given an opportunity to present its views, concerns, and suggestions to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in the state. A majority of the parties requested that the election be conducted in a single phase or at most two phases to streamline the process and minimize logistical challenges. Several parties also urged the Commission to consider the timing of the Bihu festival while finalizing polling dates.
Political representatives broadly appreciated the Special Summary Revision of the electoral rolls in Assam and offered recommendations to ensure peaceful and orderly polling across constituencies.
Following discussions with political parties, the Commission held a detailed review meeting with senior officials including Inspectors General of Police (IGs), Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), District Election Officers (DEOs), and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs). Key areas discussed included election planning, Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) management, logistics, training of polling personnel, law and order preparedness, voter awareness campaigns, and communication strategies.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar emphasized that the elections must strictly adhere to the Constitution, relevant laws, and the guidelines issued by the Election Commission. The Commission directed all DEOs, SSPs, and state administrative authorities to function with complete neutrality and ensure prompt resolution of complaints raised by political parties.
Additionally, instructions were issued to make polling stations festive, welcoming, and voter-friendly to enhance the overall voting experience. Officials were also directed to monitor misinformation and fake news closely and take swift legal action wherever necessary.
The review underscores the Commission’s commitment to conducting peaceful and credible elections in Assam. FD SB