Voting for the Assam state Assembly elections commenced today, with 2.5 crore voters determining the fate of 722 candidates across 126 seats. Polling will run from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm at 31,940 polling stations in 35 districts. A significant security presence, including over 1.5 lakh personnel, has been deployed to maintain order. Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Goel confirmed that additional staff are on standby, particularly in remote regions like Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao. Facilities such as drinking water, toilets, and waiting areas are provided at polling stations, with special arrangements for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to vote from home. The elections are a critical contest between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition coalition led by the Indian National Congress. Key candidates include Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi, and others. The Election Commission has implemented measures such as micro-observers in sensitive areas and model polling stations. Vote counting will occur on May 4, with results available on the Election Commission's website.