2016 Assam Legislative Assembly election

The prior Assam assembly ended on 5 June 2016.{{Cite web |url=http://www.elections.in/upcoming-elections-in-india.html |title=Upcoming Elections in India |access-date=2015-11-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151114083907/http://www.elections.in/upcoming-elections-in-india.html |archive-date=2015-11-14 |url-status=live }} The full bench of the Election Commission headed by Syed Nasim Ahmad Zaidi visited Assam on 21 December 2015.{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1151223/jsp/northeast/story_59877.jsp#.VnqID_l97IU |title=Panel silent on Assam dates- Final electoral rolls on January 11: CEC |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223190843/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1151223/jsp/northeast/story_59877.jsp#.VnqID_l97IU |archive-date=2015-12-23 |url-status=dead }} Voter-verified paper audit trails were introduced in 10 constituencies (approximately 2400 polling booths) in Assam assembly polls.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-06/news/71246626_1_verifiable-paper-audit-trail-political-parties-vvpat |title=Assam Chief Electoral Officer meets political parties on poll preparedness |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417155112/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-06/news/71246626_1_verifiable-paper-audit-trail-political-parties-vvpat |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }} These included the four assembly constituencies in Kamrup Metro district: Dispur, Jalukbari, Gauhati East and Gauhati West.{{cite web |url=http://www.jagranjosh.com/current-affairs/vvpat-to-be-introduced-in-10-constituencies-in-assam-assembly-polls-1456293348-1 |title=vvpat were introduced in 10 constituencies in Assam assembly polls |work=Jagranjosh.com |access-date=2016-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160225094908/http://www.jagranjosh.com/current-affairs/vvpat-to-be-introduced-in-10-constituencies-in-assam-assembly-polls-1456293348-1 |archive-date=2016-02-25 |url-status=live }} 250 polling stations were made model polling stations.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-12-23/news/69261462_1_assam-polls-assembly-polls-political-parties |title=Election Commission asked SPs to map vulnerable places for Assam polls |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417133718/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-12-23/news/69261462_1_assam-polls-assembly-polls-political-parties |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }}

An update to the National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) was to be completed by 1 January 2016, monitored by the Supreme Court of India.{{cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/national-register-of-citizens-in-assam-issue-of-illegal-foreigners-continues-to-be-a-major-political-one/articleshow/47657561.cms |title=National Register of Citizens in Assam: Issue of illegal foreigners continues to be a major political one |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151101000555/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/national-register-of-citizens-in-assam-issue-of-illegal-foreigners-continues-to-be-a-major-political-one/articleshow/47657561.cms |archive-date=2015-11-01 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/assam-overhaul-of-national-register-of-citizens-sparks-controversy/story-O082SAiZUXEc9ZRWfpsvDO.html |title=Assam: Overhaul of National Register of Citizens sparks controversy |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105231414/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/assam-overhaul-of-national-register-of-citizens-sparks-controversy/story-O082SAiZUXEc9ZRWfpsvDO.html |archive-date=2016-01-05 |url-status=live }} By September 2015, the first phase was completed; over 66.90 lakh (6,690,000) households submitted forms linking themselves to either the NRC of 1951 or any of the electoral rolls prior to 24 March 1971. It was to be followed by verifying the applications.

The effort was intended to detect and deport the illegal migrants who came from neighbouring Bangladesh on or after 25 March 1971.{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-starkness-of-being-nowhere/article7633845.ece |title=The starkness of being nowhere}} Since 1985, Foreigners' Tribunals have declared over 38,000 persons in Assam as illegal migrants. Nearly 1.5 lakh (150,000) names in Assam's electoral rolls carry the prefix "D" for "Doubtful" citizenship status.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/simply-put-in-assam-an-ongoing-effort-to-detect-illegal-bangladeshi-migrants/ |title=In Assam, an ongoing effort to detect illegal Bangladeshi migrants |date=17 June 2015 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107202935/http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/simply-put-in-assam-an-ongoing-effort-to-detect-illegal-bangladeshi-migrants/ |archive-date=2016-01-07 |url-status=live }} The Supreme Court directed the Assam Government to complete the final NRC by 1 March 2016.{{cite web |url=http://www.outlookindia.com/newswire/story/migrants-issue-sc-asks-assam-govt-to-upgrade-nrc-by-march-1/922345 |title=Migrants Issue: SC Asks Assam Govt to Upgrade NRC by March 1 |work=outlookindia.com |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422113725/http://www.outlookindia.com/newswire/story/migrants-issue-sc-asks-assam-govt-to-upgrade-nrc-by-march-1/922345 |archive-date=2016-04-22 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/complete-nrc-by-march-1-sc-to-assam-government-115120101455_1.html |title=Complete NRC by March 1: SC to Assam government |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |date=1 December 2015 |access-date=2015-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305163149/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/complete-nrc-by-march-1-sc-to-assam-government-115120101455_1.html |archive-date=2016-03-05 |url-status=live }} In May 2015, the historic India–Bangladesh land swap deal was signed, exchanging long-standing territorial enclaves and simplifying the border.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bangladesh-india-in-historic-land-swap-after-nearly-4-decades/story-gHXVmfal3DFnFdyfObEz1L.html |title=Bangladesh, India in historic land swap after nearly 4 decades |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2015-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151229165317/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bangladesh-india-in-historic-land-swap-after-nearly-4-decades/story-gHXVmfal3DFnFdyfObEz1L.html |archive-date=2015-12-29 |url-status=live }}

According to the draft electoral rolls published in October 2015, the total number of voters in Assam stands at 1.92 crores (19.2  million). The Election Commission said that final electoral rolls would be published by 11 January 2016.

According to the 2011 census, 61.5% were Hindus, 34.22% were Muslims.{{cite web |title=Population by religion community - 2011 |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS |website=Census of India, 2011 |publisher=The Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150825155850/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS |archive-date=2015-08-25}}{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx |title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905104547/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx |archive-date=2015-09-05 |url-status=dead }} Christian minorities (3.7%) are mostly among some of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (SC/ST) population.{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece |title=Religious communities Census 2011: What the numbers say |work=The Hindu |access-date=2016-04-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110201326/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece |archive-date=2016-01-10 |url-status=live }} The Scheduled Tribe population (both ST(Plains) and ST(Hills) combined) in Assam is around 13% of which the Bodo people(an indigenous Assamese community) account for 40% and the Scheduled Caste population is about 7.4% of which the Kaibarta and Jal Keot(both indigenous Assamese communities) combined account for about 36%.{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece |title=Bodos and their rights |access-date=2015-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201092705/http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece |archive-date=2016-12-01 |url-status=live }}

Out of 32 districts of Assam, 11 are Muslim majority according to the 2011 census.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assembly-polls-Chasing-the-Muslim-vote/articleshow/51302289.cms |title=Assembly polls: Chasing the Muslim vote |access-date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308090448/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assembly-polls-Chasing-the-Muslim-vote/articleshow/51302289.cms |archive-date=2016-03-08 |url-status=live }} The districts are Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, Morigaon, Nagaon, Hojai, Karimganj, South Salmara–Mankachar, Hailakandi, Darrang and Bongaigaon.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms |title=Muslim majority districts in Assam up |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms |archive-date=2016-01-04 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/ |title=Assam Muslim growth is higher in districts away from border |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223192413/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/ |archive-date=2015-12-23 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html |title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html |archive-date=2016-01-04 |url-status=live }} Bodos have a population share of 12% and the Kaibarta and Jal Keot have a total share of about 10% (all of which are a part of the indigenous Assamese community).{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/assam-s-perfume-tycoon-badruddin-ajmal-smells-opportunity-to-be-kingmaker/story-mU6YQnS2XgfmARyh8CTmgL.html |title=Badruddin Ajmal: Businessman, AIUDF chief and Assam's next kingmaker? |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2016-04-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422122027/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/assam-s-perfume-tycoon-badruddin-ajmal-smells-opportunity-to-be-kingmaker/story-mU6YQnS2XgfmARyh8CTmgL.html |archive-date=2016-04-22 |url-status=live }} The share of the indigenous Assamese communities in Assam was about 47% in the 2001 census which has reduced to about 40-45% in 2016 as predicted by experts. Indigenous Assamese Muslims, also known as Khilonjia Muslims, include ethnic groups such as Goria and Moria, and are estimated to be around 40 lakhs in population out of a total 1 crore (4 million out of 10 million) Muslims in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/assam-elections-2016-bjp-congress-the-politics-around-the-two-ends-of-assams-complex-muslim-spectrum/ |title=The politics around the two ends of Assam's complex Muslim spectrum |date=8 April 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-04-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411012825/http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/assam-elections-2016-bjp-congress-the-politics-around-the-two-ends-of-assams-complex-muslim-spectrum/ |archive-date=2016-04-11 |url-status=live }}

==={{legend2|{{party color|National Democratic Alliance}}|National Democratic Alliance}}===

In November 2015, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah held a party workers' rally in Dibrugarh in Upper Assam Division.{{cite web |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/politics/bjp-blows-poll-bugle-in-assam-with-amit-shah-s-rally-115112700710_1.html |title=BJP blows poll bugle in Assam with Amit Shah's rally |author=Supratim Dey |date=27 November 2015 |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224054046/http://www.business-standard.com/article/politics/bjp-blows-poll-bugle-in-assam-with-amit-shah-s-rally-115112700710_1.html |archive-date=2015-12-24 |url-status=live }} Union Minister and Lakhimpur MP Sarbananda Sonowal was made Assam BJP chief to head their election committee.{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/regional-players-eye-key-role/176240.html |title=Regional players eye key role |access-date=2015-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060428/http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/regional-players-eye-key-role/176240.html |archive-date=2016-03-04 |url-status=live }} Sonowal found the situation of illegal immigration from Bangladesh "very alarming".{{cite web |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/not-against-muslims-only-illegal-migrants-sarbananda-sonowal-115122600600_1.html |title=Not against Muslims, only illegal migrants: Sarbananda Sonowal |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227230843/http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/not-against-muslims-only-illegal-migrants-sarbananda-sonowal-115122600600_1.html |archive-date=2015-12-27 |url-status=live }} (Sonowal had led an effort to have the controversial Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) (IMDT) Act struck down by the Supreme court of India in December 2006, making deportations easier.){{cite web |url=http://indiankanoon.org/doc/1436100/ |title=Sarbananda Sonowal vs Union Of India on 5 December, 2006 |access-date=2015-12-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227041923/http://indiankanoon.org/doc/1436100/ |archive-date=2015-12-27 |url-status=live }} Himanta Biswa Sarma, a state Congress heavyweight joined BJP.{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bjp-gets-battle-ready-in-assam-after-bihar-loss/1/528648.html |title=BJP gets battle ready in Assam after Bihar loss |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223235915/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bjp-gets-battle-ready-in-assam-after-bihar-loss/1/528648.html |archive-date=2015-12-23 |url-status=live }} BJP has aimed for 'Mission 84' in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/in-fact-how-possible-is-the-bjps-mission-84-in-assam-next-year/ |title=In fact: How possible is the BJP's 'Mission 84' in Assam next year? |date=2 November 2015 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160103012745/http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/in-fact-how-possible-is-the-bjps-mission-84-in-assam-next-year/ |archive-date=2016-01-03 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bjp-gears-up-for-assam-election-unit-gets-28-lakh-new-members/1/539505.html |title=BJP gears up for Assam election, unit gets 28 lakh new members |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223235919/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bjp-gears-up-for-assam-election-unit-gets-28-lakh-new-members/1/539505.html |archive-date=2015-12-23 |url-status=live }} BJP led in 69 assembly constituencies in the Lok Sabha elections 2014 by winning 7 Lok Sabha seats in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/UMNBp7JCKNWH5cMlkHB0bL/Assam-can-BJP-defy-history.html |title=Assam: can BJP defy history? |access-date=2016-03-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316083503/http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/UMNBp7JCKNWH5cMlkHB0bL/Assam-can-BJP-defy-history.html |archive-date=2016-03-16 |url-status=live }} For the first time, the BJP had contested the Bodoland Territorial Council elections, and won a seat.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Bodoland-drubbing-forces-Cong-BJP-to-rethink-poll-plan/articleshow/46890918.cms |title=Bodoland drubbing forces Cong, BJP to rethink poll plan |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150421174315/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Bodoland-drubbing-forces-Cong-BJP-to-rethink-poll-plan/articleshow/46890918.cms |archive-date=2015-04-21 |url-status=live }}

In December 2015, Indian National Congress (INC) Vice-President Rahul Gandhi visited Assam where he accused Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS, lit "National Volunteer Organisation") workers of not letting him enter Barpeta Satra temple in Barpeta district.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rss-workers-stopped-me-from-entering-assam-temple-rahul-gandhi/ |title=RSS workers 'stopped' me from entering Assam temple: Rahul Gandhi |date=15 December 2015 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223191923/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rss-workers-stopped-me-from-entering-assam-temple-rahul-gandhi/ |archive-date=2015-12-23 |url-status=live }} RSS, widely regarded as the parent organisation of BJP, denied the charge. Gandhi announced that Tarun Gogoi would be the chief minister candidate of INC.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/tarun-gogoi-to-be-cm-candidate-in-2016-assam-polls-rahul-gandhi/story-ttCcL8IZE4DfLcnO3tpSqK.html |title=Tarun Gogoi to be CM candidate in 2016 Assam polls: Rahul Gandhi |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105040718/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/tarun-gogoi-to-be-cm-candidate-in-2016-assam-polls-rahul-gandhi/story-ttCcL8IZE4DfLcnO3tpSqK.html |archive-date=2016-01-05 |url-status=live }} Demand was growing for giving scheduled tribe (ST) status to six communities – Tai Ahoms, Koch Rajbongshis, Moran, Motok, Sootea and 36 tea tribes (the descendants of tea garden workers settled by British in the state from Chotanagpur plateau in the mid-19th century).{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-tea-workers-await-tribal-status-as-congress-bjp-fight-for-their-vote-1274660 |title=Assam Tea Workers Await Tribal Status As Congress, BJP Fight For Their Vote |author=Sandeep Phukan |date=7 February 2016 |work=NDTV.com |access-date=2016-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207152432/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-tea-workers-await-tribal-status-as-congress-bjp-fight-for-their-vote-1274660 |archive-date=2016-02-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Koch-royal-families-of-Assam-raise-the-ante-for-ST-status/articleshow/50267656.cms |title=Koch royal families of Assam raise the ante for ST status |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102040208/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Koch-royal-families-of-Assam-raise-the-ante-for-ST-status/articleshow/50267656.cms |archive-date=2017-01-02 |url-status=live }}

In November 2015, nine members of the legislative assembly left the INC and joined BJP.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Nine-Assam-Cong-MLAs-to-join-BJP-today/articleshow/49681546.cms |title=Nine Assam Cong MLAs to join BJP today |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151109050822/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Nine-Assam-Cong-MLAs-to-join-BJP-today/articleshow/49681546.cms |archive-date=2015-11-09 |url-status=live }} Assam Governor PB Acharya made a controversial statement that Hindustan is only for Hindus.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hindustan-is-for-Hindus-Assam-governor/articleshow/49876275.cms |title=Hindustan is for Hindus: Assam governor |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151127061829/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hindustan-is-for-Hindus-Assam-governor/articleshow/49876275.cms |archive-date=2015-11-27 |url-status=live }} Ex-United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) rebels announced that they would contest Assam polls.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/ex-ulfa-rebels-to-contest-assam-polls/story-G5YqTkU1IAqMZBpyeK55OK.html |title=Ex-Ulfa rebels to contest Assam polls |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2015-12-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225040416/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/ex-ulfa-rebels-to-contest-assam-polls/story-G5YqTkU1IAqMZBpyeK55OK.html |archive-date=2015-12-25 |url-status=live }} On 26 December 2015, BJP's Assam unit launched its 'Assam Nirman' initiative, seeking public opinion to prepare a vision document for development in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/BJP-launches-Assam-Nirman-to-chart-roadmap-to-progress/articleshow/50339915.cms |title=BJP launches Assam Nirman to chart roadmap to progress |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101204449/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/BJP-launches-Assam-Nirman-to-chart-roadmap-to-progress/articleshow/50339915.cms |archive-date=2016-01-01 |url-status=live }}

On 28 December 2015, Smriti Irani visited Barak Valley in Assam and accused the Tarun Gogoi government of not doing enough for women's safety.{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/rise-in-crimes-against-women-in-assam-irani/article8037682.ece |title=Rise in crimes against women in Assam: Irani |agency=Press Trust of India |work=The Hindu}}{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Top-BJP-leaders-to-visit-state-in-Dec/articleshow/50054128.cms |title=Top BJP leaders to visit state in Dec |work=The Times of India |access-date=2015-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102123740/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Top-BJP-leaders-to-visit-state-in-Dec/articleshow/50054128.cms |archive-date=2017-01-02 |url-status=live }} Gogoi accused the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of stalling tactics on granting citizenship to refugees from Bangladesh, claiming that they had been persecuted there.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-12-29/news/69379511_1_citizenship-delay-assam-cm-tarun-gogoi-lip-service |title=Citizenship delay due to BJP: Assam CM Tarun Gogoi |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417131109/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-12-29/news/69379511_1_citizenship-delay-assam-cm-tarun-gogoi-lip-service |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }} Gogoi said external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj met with businessmen in Assam during her visit instead of talking about the problems and issues confronting the state.{{cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bjp-trying-to-bring-goondaraj-to-assam-cm-tarun-gogoi/articleshow/50368994.cms |title=BJP trying to bring goondaraj to Assam: CM Tarun Gogoi |access-date=2015-12-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102031215/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bjp-trying-to-bring-goondaraj-to-assam-cm-tarun-gogoi/articleshow/50368994.cms |archive-date=2016-01-02 |url-status=live }}

In January 2016, the Gogoi government announced rice prices at Rs 2 per kilogramme and to build all-religion {{transliteration|hi|bhawans}}.{{cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/assam-cm-tarun-gogoi-doles-out-scheme-to-build-all-religion-bhawans/articleshow/50411606.cms |title=Assam CM Tarun Gogoi doles out scheme to build all-religion bhawans |access-date=2016-01-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160106055449/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/assam-cm-tarun-gogoi-doles-out-scheme-to-build-all-religion-bhawans/articleshow/50411606.cms |archive-date=2016-01-06 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/four-months-to-assam-assembly-polls-cm-gogoi-to-provide-rice-at-rs-2kg-to-2-cr-people/ |title=Four months to Assam assembly polls, Gogoi govt to give rice at Rs 2 a kg |date=2 January 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-01-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102181407/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/four-months-to-assam-assembly-polls-cm-gogoi-to-provide-rice-at-rs-2kg-to-2-cr-people/ |archive-date=2016-01-02 |url-status=live }} The Assam INC President ruled-out any alliance with All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) or Asom Gana Parishad (AGP, lit "Assam Peoples Association") parties.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-Congress-rules-out-truck-with-AIUDF-AGP/articleshow/50461435.cms |title=Assam Congress rules out truck with AIUDF, AGP |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107034409/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-Congress-rules-out-truck-with-AIUDF-AGP/articleshow/50461435.cms |archive-date=2016-01-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-state-in-the-states/article8069400.ece |title=The state in the States |author=Sanjay Kumar |work=The Hindu}} Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh visited Assam on 3 January 2016 and said the fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border would be completed by December 2016.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rajnath-singh-promises-to-complete-bangladesh-border-fence-by-year-end/ |title=Bangladesh border fence in Assam to be completed this year: Rajnath Singh |access-date=2016-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107075255/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rajnath-singh-promises-to-complete-bangladesh-border-fence-by-year-end/ |archive-date=2016-01-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160106/jsp/northeast/story_62357.jsp |title=Gogoi tirade against Rajnath, Modi |work=The Telegraph |access-date=2016-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110121222/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160106/jsp/northeast/story_62357.jsp#.VpCtXrZ97IU |archive-date=2016-01-10 |url-status=dead }} A delegation of the All Assam Students Union (AASU) met Singh and visited the border areas. Rajnath Singh visited Dhubri district and expressed dissatisfaction with the fencing work there. He said that a feasibility study and two pilot projects were underway in the Dhubri sector of the riverine border.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-04/news/69511994_1_dhubri-fencing-work-rajnath-singh |title=Not satisfied with fencing work along Dhubri sector of India-Bangladesh border: Rajnath Singh |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417150508/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-04/news/69511994_1_dhubri-fencing-work-rajnath-singh |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }} Gogoi said that 97.32% of the border fencing work in Karimganj and Dhubri was complete and asked the Central Government to take up a pilot project involving technological solutions to plug the riverine border.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Gogoi-Rajnath-shirked-duty-indulged-in-politics-in-Assam/articleshow/50464802.cms |title=Gogoi: Rajnath shirked duty, indulged in politics in Assam |access-date=2016-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160321061152/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Gogoi-Rajnath-shirked-duty-indulged-in-politics-in-Assam/articleshow/50464802.cms |archive-date=2016-03-21 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ground-report-from-dhubri-will-border-issues-polarise-voters-in-assam-1263720 |title=Ground Report From Dhubri: Will Border Issues Polarise Voters in Assam? |access-date=2016-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160125134414/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ground-report-from-dhubri-will-border-issues-polarise-voters-in-assam-1263720 |archive-date=2016-01-25 |url-status=live }}

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Kokrajhar on 19 January 2016, after his visit to Sikkim on 18 January 2016.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/why-modi-launched-his-assam-campaign-from-kokrajhar/ |title=Why PM Modi launched his Assam campaign from Kokrajhar |date=19 January 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160208030439/http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/why-modi-launched-his-assam-campaign-from-kokrajhar/ |archive-date=2016-02-08 |url-status=live }} Modi formally announced the alliance of Bodoland People's Front (BPF) with BJP in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-to-kick-off-bjps-assam-campaign/article8073591.ece |title=Prime Minister Narendra Modi to kick off BJP's Assam campaign}}

On 28 January, the BJP Parliamentary Board announced Sarbananda Sonowal as their Chief Ministerial candidate of Assam.{{cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bjp-departs-from-practice-names-sarbananda-sonowal-as-assam-cm-candidate/articleshow/50761663.cms |title=BJP departs from practice, names Sarbananda Sonowal as Assam CM candidate |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131113702/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bjp-departs-from-practice-names-sarbananda-sonowal-as-assam-cm-candidate/articleshow/50761663.cms |archive-date=2016-01-31 |url-status=live }} Union minister of state for commerce and industry Nirmala Sitharaman accused Gogoi of spreading misinformation on the suspension of the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIPP), 2007.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Sitharaman-Gogoi-spreading-misinformation-about-NEIIPP/articleshow/50783683.cms |title=Sitharaman: Gogoi spreading misinformation about NEIIPP |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825211702/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Sitharaman-Gogoi-spreading-misinformation-about-NEIIPP/articleshow/50783683.cms |archive-date=2016-08-25 |url-status=live }} Ethnic groups of Assam sought ULFA pro-talks faction headed by founding general secretary Anup Chetia to help them receive ST designation.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Ethnic-groups-seek-Ulfa-help-to-get-ST-tag/articleshow/50683104.cms |title=Ethnic groups seek Ulfa help to get ST tag |work=The Times of India}}{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-24/news/70036465_1_anup-chetia-bangladesh-jail-assam-assembly |title=Why the militant group ULFA matters ahead of Assam Assembly Polls |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130034118/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-24/news/70036465_1_anup-chetia-bangladesh-jail-assam-assembly |archive-date=2016-01-30 |url-status=dead }}

Modi arrived on 5 February to first attend the 85th conference of the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha at the erstwhile Ahom capital of Sivasagar. Then he addressed a rally at Moran.{{cite web |url=http://scroll.in/article/802810/a-political-map-of-assam-congress-vs-bjp-vs-aiudf-vs-bpf-vs-agp |title=A political map of Assam: Congress vs BJP vs AIUDF vs BPF vs AGP |author=Ipsita Chakravarty |work=Scroll.in |access-date=2016-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207124451/http://scroll.in/article/802810/a-political-map-of-assam-congress-vs-bjp-vs-aiudf-vs-bpf-vs-agp |archive-date=2016-02-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Assembly-polls-BJP-Congress-fight-to-woo-tea-garden-workers/articleshow/50783150.cms |title=Assembly polls: BJP, Congress fight to woo tea garden workers |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131085010/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Assembly-polls-BJP-Congress-fight-to-woo-tea-garden-workers/articleshow/50783150.cms |archive-date=2016-01-31 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/NaMo-to-inaugurate-gas-cracker-project-in-Dibrugarh-on-February-5/articleshow/50611195.cms |title=NaMo to inaugurate gas cracker project in Dibrugarh on February 5 |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-02-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123224542/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/NaMo-to-inaugurate-gas-cracker-project-in-Dibrugarh-on-February-5/articleshow/50611195.cms |archive-date=2016-01-23 |url-status=live }} Modi dedicated the Assam gas cracker project at Dibrugarh{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rs-9965-cr-assam-gas-cracker-sees-light-of-day-after-31-years/ |title=After 31 years, Rs 9,965 cr Assam gas cracker project sees light of day |date=6 February 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207223907/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rs-9965-cr-assam-gas-cracker-sees-light-of-day-after-31-years/ |archive-date=2016-02-07 |url-status=live }} and inaugurated the 2016 South Asian Games in Guwahati on 5 February.{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/sport/south-asian-games-budget-up-because-of-terror-threat/182590.html |title=South Asian Games budget up because of terror threat |access-date=2016-01-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011201753/http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/sport/south-asian-games-budget-up-because-of-terror-threat/182590.html |archive-date=2016-10-11 |url-status=live }}

On 2 March, the BJP announced its alliance with AGP.{{cite web |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/agp-bjp-to-fight-assam-assembly-polls-together-116030200876_1.html |title=AGP, BJP to fight Assam assembly polls together |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |date=2 March 2016 |access-date=2016-03-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306132826/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/agp-bjp-to-fight-assam-assembly-polls-together-116030200876_1.html |archive-date=2016-03-06 |url-status=live }} AGP was given 24 seats.{{cite web |url=http://www.firstpost.com/politics/assam-elections-bjp-offers-a-five-party-coalition-alternative-to-congress-2668924.html |title=Assam elections: BJP offers a five-party coalition alternative to Congress |author=Firstpost |date=11 March 2016 |work=Firstpost |access-date=2016-03-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313082758/http://www.firstpost.com/politics/assam-elections-bjp-offers-a-five-party-coalition-alternative-to-congress-2668924.html |archive-date=2016-03-13 |url-status=live }} Gogoi announced a special package of Rs 3,000 cr (Rs 30 billion) for Barak Valley.[http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar0516/state053 CM announces Rs 3,000 cr for Barak Valley] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306093036/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar0516%2Fstate053 |date=6 March 2016 }} Gandhi visited Assam for two days, 4–5 March 2016, and addressed public meetings in Silchar and Nagaon.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rahul-gandhi-narendra-modi-india-news/ |title=Rahul in Assam: PM Modi didn't answer my questions |date=5 March 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-03-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305010943/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/rahul-gandhi-narendra-modi-india-news/ |archive-date=2016-03-05 |url-status=live }} On 6 March 2016, INC allied with Bodo-heartland-based United People's Party in a strategy to counter BJP's alliance with BPF.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-polls-Congress-ties-up-with-United-Peoples-Party/articleshow/51283565.cms |title=Assam polls: Congress ties up with United People's Party |author=Prabin Kalita |date=7 March 2016 |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307153214/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-polls-Congress-ties-up-with-United-Peoples-Party/articleshow/51283565.cms |archive-date=2016-03-07 |url-status=live }}

On 10 March, BJP declared candidates for the first phase of Assam elections.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/bjp-declares-candidates-for-1st-phase-of-assam-assembly-elections/story-qAosRu4Mf7lAvy2Y4n7eeL.html |title=BJP declares candidates for 1st phase of Assam elections |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322013719/http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/bjp-declares-candidates-for-1st-phase-of-assam-assembly-elections/story-qAosRu4Mf7lAvy2Y4n7eeL.html |archive-date=2016-03-22 |url-status=live }} Out of 126 Assembly constituencies, BJP contested 84 constituencies and left 42 to its four National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies: AGP (24), BPF (16), Rabha Jatiya Aikya Manch (1) and Tiwa Jatiya Aikya Manch (1). BJP gave tickets to two ex-militants including Bhaskar Sarma (who was accused of secret killings). On 16 March 2016, Sarbananda Sonowal filed his nomination for the Majuli (ST) assembly seat.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/assam-kerala-elections-2016-ballotin-eye-on-dispur/ |title=Ballotin: Eye on Dispur |access-date=2016-03-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160323195002/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/assam-kerala-elections-2016-ballotin-eye-on-dispur/ |archive-date=2016-03-23 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-20/news/71678687_1_majuli-sarbananda-sonowal-bridge-ceremony |title=Assam polls 2016: How the world's largest inhabited island - Majuli - figures in BJP's game plan |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417132006/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-20/news/71678687_1_majuli-sarbananda-sonowal-bridge-ceremony |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }} Modi addressed a rally in Majuli on 23 March 2016.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-17/news/71602699_1_election-meeting-prime-minister-narendra-modi-chief-minister-tarun-gogoi |title=PM Narendra Modi to campaign for BJP's Assam CM nominee Sarbananda Sonowal |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417183337/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-17/news/71602699_1_election-meeting-prime-minister-narendra-modi-chief-minister-tarun-gogoi |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }} INC released its first list of 65 candidates on 15 March 2016;{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/first-list-of-congress-candidates-for-assam-polls-announced/ |title=First list of Congress candidates for Assam polls announced |date=15 March 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160321071646/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/first-list-of-congress-candidates-for-assam-polls-announced/ |archive-date=2016-03-21 |url-status=live }} the second list of 57 candidates was announced on 21 March 2016.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Assam-polls-Congress-releases-list-of-57-candidates-for-second-phase/articleshow/51496517.cms |title=Assam polls: Congress releases list of 57 candidates for second phase |date=21 March 2016 |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322113439/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Assam-polls-Congress-releases-list-of-57-candidates-for-second-phase/articleshow/51496517.cms |archive-date=2016-03-22 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.ibnlive.com/news/politics/congress-releases-second-list-of-candidates-for-assam-assembly-elections-1219483.html |title=Congress releases second list of candidates for Assam Assembly elections |publisher=CNN-IBN |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325075339/http://www.ibnlive.com/news/politics/congress-releases-second-list-of-candidates-for-assam-assembly-elections-1219483.html |archive-date=2016-03-25 |url-status=live }} INC contested 122 seats while its ally United People's Party contested the remaining 4 seats.{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160322/jsp/northeast/story_75767.jsp |title=For phase 2, old is gold for Cong- Four fresh faces in final list |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160403053503/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160322/jsp/northeast/story_75767.jsp#.VvFqdOJ97IU |archive-date=2016-04-03 |url-status=dead }} BJP's Himanta Biswa Sarma filed nomination papers from Jalukbari on 21 March 2016.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/bjp-s-himanta-files-nomination-papers-from-jalukbari/story-qxIBRIu7yq2SDXd7S0ASWO.html |title=BJP's Himanta files nomination papers from Jalukbari |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322191627/http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/bjp-s-himanta-files-nomination-papers-from-jalukbari/story-qxIBRIu7yq2SDXd7S0ASWO.html |archive-date=2016-03-22 |url-status=live }} AIUDF contested around 76 seats while its allies in Assam – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Janata Dal (United) (JD[U]) – contest 12 seats each.{{cite web |url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/assam-election-2016-aiudf-rjd-jdu-form-grand-alliance-against-bjp-invite-congress-to-join-2681616.html |title=Assam Election 2016: AIUDF, RJD, JD(U) form grand alliance against BJP, invite Congress to join |author=Firstpost |date=17 March 2016 |work=Firstpost |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160318185016/http://www.firstpost.com/india/assam-election-2016-aiudf-rjd-jdu-form-grand-alliance-against-bjp-invite-congress-to-join-2681616.html |archive-date=2016-03-18 |url-status=live }} AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal ran for South Salmara seat, while Gogoi ran for the Titabar seat against BJP MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Ajmal-and-his-son-in-Assam-assembly-poll-fray/articleshow/51496287.cms |title=Ajmal and his son in Assam assembly poll fray |author=Naresh Mitra |date=21 March 2016 |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160331214018/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Ajmal-and-his-son-in-Assam-assembly-poll-fray/articleshow/51496287.cms |archive-date=2016-03-31 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-22/news/71732538_1_chief-minister-tarun-gogoi-titabar-tasa |title=Assam: BJP MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa pitted against CM Tarun Gogoi in upcoming assembly polls |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2016-04-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417145612/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-03-22/news/71732538_1_chief-minister-tarun-gogoi-titabar-tasa |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=dead }}

On 12 February 2016, the Election Commission of India announced that 10 assembly constituencies in Assam will have 2300 voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines attached along with electronic voting machines (EVMs).{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160305/jsp/frontpage/story_72928.jsp |title=Pre-Bihu date with elections |work=The Telegraph |access-date=2016-03-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305104923/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160305/jsp/frontpage/story_72928.jsp#.VtprYn197IU |archive-date=2016-03-05 |url-status=dead }}

The dates of the election were announced on 4 March 2016. (In previous elections, all 140 constituencies went to polls on the same day.){{cite web |url=http://infoelections.com/infoelection/index.php/assam-news/6169-assam-assembly-election-schedule.html |title=Assam Assembly Election Schedule 2016 |work=infoelections |access-date=2015-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105042253/http://infoelections.com/infoelection/index.php/assam-news/6169-assam-assembly-election-schedule.html |archive-date=2016-01-05 |url-status=live }}

The polling was held in two phases, on 4 and 11 April 2016. The counting was scheduled for 19 May 2016 for both phases.

Voter turnout was 84.72%.{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160413/jsp/northeast/story_79826.jsp |title=Assam records its highest voter turnout |access-date=2016-04-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160421012727/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160413/jsp/northeast/story_79826.jsp |archive-date=2016-04-21 |url-status=dead }} 87.03% polling was recorded in the second phase, the highest in Assam's history.{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections-2016/assam-elections-2016/news/Assam-records-highest-ever-polling-in-its-history-surprise-results-likely/articleshow/51786815.cms |title=Assam records highest-ever polling in its history, surprise results likely |author=Prabin Kalita |date=12 April 2016 |work=The Times of India |access-date=2016-04-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414215056/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections-2016/assam-elections-2016/news/Assam-records-highest-ever-polling-in-its-history-surprise-results-likely/articleshow/51786815.cms |archive-date=2016-04-14 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/assams-85-has-pollsters-riveted/article8462872.ece |title=Assam's 85% has pollsters riveted |author= |work=The Hindu |access-date=2016-04-17}} One person was killed by police in Assam.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/elections-assam-west-bengal-tmc-polls-second-phase-assembly-turnout-pollings/ |title=High turnout in Assam, West Bengal in second phase; one dead in police firing, FIR against Tarun Gogoi |date=11 April 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-04-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417103346/http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/elections-assam-west-bengal-tmc-polls-second-phase-assembly-turnout-pollings/ |archive-date=2016-04-17 |url-status=live }} 189 EVMs were replaced in the final phase due to technical issues.{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/assam-assembly-polls-189-evms-replaced-final-phase/ |title=Assam polls: 189 EVMs replaced during final phase |date=11 April 2016 |work=The Indian Express |access-date=2016-04-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160413185659/http://indianexpress.com/article/elections-2016/india/india-news-india/assam-assembly-polls-189-evms-replaced-final-phase/ |archive-date=2016-04-13 |url-status=live }} A total of 1,064 candidates contested the elections – 122 from INC, 89 from BJP, 74 from AIUDF, 30 from AGP, 13 from the BPF, 15 from CPI, 19 from CPM, 205 others and 497 Independents. The total number of polling stations in Assam was 24,890, spread across 50 election districts.

{{Pie chart

|thumb = left

|label1 = NDA

|value1 = 68.26

|color1 = Orange

|label2 = UPA

|value2 = 20.63

|color2 = #00CCFF

|label3 = AIUDF

|value3 = 10.32

|color3 = Green

|label4 = IND

|value4 = 0.79

|color4 = #C0C0C0

}}

{{Pie chart

|thumb = right

|label1 = NDA

|value1 = 41.90

|color1 = Orange

|label2 = UPA

|value2 = 31.00

|color2 = #00CCFF

|label3 = AIUDF

|value3 = 13.00

|color3 = Green

|label4 = CPM

|value4 = 0.55

|color4 = Red

|label5 = CPI

|value5 = 0.22

|color5 = Pink

|label6 = Others

|value6 = 13.33

|color6 = Grey

}}

{{clear}}

• 2016 elections in India
• 2011 Assam Legislative Assembly election
• Bangladeshis in India
• Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, 1983
• National Register of Citizens of India

{{Reflist|2}}

• [http://eci.nic.in/eci/eci.html Election Commission of India]

{{Assam elections|state=collapsed}}

Assam

2016

2016