The Aryavarth Express
Guwahati (Assam): The Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly began on Monday, marking the final session of the current term. Proceedings opened amid protests by Congress MLAs demanding justice for noted Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, who passed away on September 19, 2025.
Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Debabrata Saikia said the matter is currently before the court and should not be politicised. He expressed hope that the judiciary would treat the case seriously and consider the family’s plea for a fast-track trial.
“The matter is in court. It is not an election issue. The family has sought a fast-track trial, and we support that demand,” Saikia told reporters.
Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika outlined the four-day schedule of the session. He said the Governor would deliver the customary address on the opening day, followed by discussions. On the second day, the Finance Minister will present the vote on account (interim budget), which will also be debated before the session concludes.
“This is not a full budget but a short four-day session. The Governor’s speech will be discussed, and tomorrow the vote on account will be presented and debated,” Hazarika said.
Another state minister, Nandita Garlosa, expressed hope that the final session would meet public expectations, noting that several key decisions had been taken during the Assembly’s term.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal indicated he would contest from the Goalpara West constituency in the upcoming elections, stating that further details would be shared later.
BJP MLA Manab Deka said the Governor’s address would be followed by the interim budget presentation and described the sitting as the last Assembly session of the term. He also criticised the Opposition, alleging a shift in its political narrative, and defended Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as a dedicated public servant.
All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) MLA Aminul Islam said his party would raise multiple issues during the session, accusing the government of pursuing divisive politics. He also referred to a Supreme Court hearing scheduled for the day concerning petitions seeking an FIR and a Special Investigation Team probe against the Chief Minister over alleged hate speech.
The four-day session is expected to witness heated debates as it marks the final legislative proceedings before the state heads into elections.
