Guwahati: Following the BJP-led NDA's hat-trick of wins in the Assam assembly elections, Himanta Biswa Sarma, as per constitutional protocol, submitted his resignation to Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Wednesday, paving the way for the alliance's third stint in the state.
Resignation Accepted, Caretaker Role
Accepting the resignation, Acharya asked Sarma to continue as the caretaker Chief Minister until a new government has been formed. Sarma requested the governor to dissolve the present legislative assembly, the 15th of the House.
BJP Central Observers to Arrive
BJP's central observers JP Nadda and Nayab Singh Saini are scheduled to arrive in Guwahati at the weekend to oversee the party's legislature meeting, where a decision on the new Chief Minister will be taken. While Sarma is expected to continue as CM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to attend the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 12.
Speaking to reporters after submitting his resignation, Sarma said, "It is a historic win and we have invited PM Narendra Modi to grace the occasion." Asked about the selection of the new CM, Sarma explained, "BJP has appointed two central observers. In their presence, the legislature party will nominate the leader to become the next CM. After that, NDA constituents will sit and finalise the name." He added, "The meeting will take place on or before May 11. We will get the information from Nadda's office today (Wednesday) or tomorrow (Thursday)."
Election Results and Alliance Support
The BJP-led NDA secured 102 seats in the 126-member assembly, with the BJP winning 82 of those. Alliance partners Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People's Front (BPF) bagged 10 each. Meanwhile, AGP elected party president Atul Bora as its legislature party leader, with Keshab Mahanta designated as his deputy and Dr Tapan Das as the secretary. AGP has unanimously backed Sarma's nomination for the post of CM.
