Assam Election 2026: What BJP and Congress promise in their manifestos

In the lead-up to the Assam state elections scheduled for 2026, both major political parties, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC), have unveiled their election manifestos, outlining their promises and plans for the region. The BJP released its 31-point “Sankalp Patra,” while the Congress, led by Rahul Gandhi and State party president Gaurav Gogoi, introduced the “Raijor Istahar,” or people manifesto. These documents highlight the key priorities and policy directions each party intends to pursue if elected.

The BJP’s “Sankalp Patra” emphasizes several key areas, including infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare. The party pledges to invest heavily in road and rail infrastructure, aiming to connect all districts in Assam and improve connectivity with neighboring states. Additionally, the BJP promises to focus on rural development, with a particular emphasis on agriculture, by introducing new irrigation projects and providing affordable credit to farmers. The manifesto also highlights the importance of education, pledging to increase the number of schools and improve the quality of education across the state.

In terms of social welfare, the BJP’s manifesto includes promises to expand healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, and to provide affordable healthcare services to all citizens. The party also plans to enhance security and combat crime, with a focus on improving the capabilities of local law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the BJP has pledged to promote Assamese culture and language, ensuring their protection and promotion in educational institutions and public life.

On the other hand, the Congress’s “Raijor Istahar” focuses on grassroots development, environmental conservation, and inclusive growth. The manifesto underscores the need for sustainable development, with a commitment to preserving Assam’s rich biodiversity and natural resources. The Congress promises to implement strict regulations on industrial activities to prevent pollution and environmental degradation.

The party also emphasizes the importance of rural electrification and clean water supply, pledging to extend these services to all rural households in Assam. In terms of education, the Congress manifesto calls for increasing the number of vocational training centers to equip the youth with the necessary skills for the modern workforce. The party also highlights its commitment to gender equality, with promises to improve women’s participation in education and the workforce.

In the realm of healthcare, the Congress manifesto pledges to expand the public healthcare system, ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable and quality healthcare services. The party also emphasizes the need for job creation, particularly for the youth, through a mix of public and private sector initiatives.

Both parties have acknowledged the importance of addressing the concerns of the Assamese population, including the issue of illegal immigration. The BJP’s manifesto reiterates its commitment to implementing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to ensure that only eligible individuals can reside in the state. The Congress, however, has taken a more nuanced approach, calling for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to address the concerns of the Assamese population while ensuring that the rights of all citizens are protected.

As the election campaign gears up, both the BJP and the Congress are expected to engage in intense debates and discussions, highlighting the differences in their policy agendas. The Assam elections of 2026 will be closely watched, as the outcome could have significant implications for the political landscape of the region and the country as a whole. Residents of Assam will be called upon to make an informed decision based on the promises and policies outlined in these manifestos, shaping the future of their state for years to come.