Initial polling trends indicate a steady voter turnout across key regions as voting progressed on Thursday across 126 Assembly constituencies in Assam

According to data recorded till 11 am, Assam reported an approximate voter turnout rate (VTR) of 38.92 per cent, reflecting moderate participation in the early hours of polling

Election officials noted that queues were visible in several constituencies, particularly in rural pockets, suggesting a gradual increase in turnout as the day advances

Assam is witnessing a high-voltage electoral battle on Thursday as polling is underway in all 126 assembly constituencies, with the contest largely shaping up as a direct fight between the BJP-led NDA and the Congress-led opposition alliance

The ruling BJP, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is aiming to secure a third consecutive term in office, while the Congress party is attempting to stage a comeback after being voted out of power in 2016

The electorate comprises around 2.50 crore eligible voters, including nearly 1.25 crore women and 318 voters from the third gender category

Among political parties, the Congress has fielded the highest number of candidates at 99, followed by the BJP with 90

The constituencies of Algapur-Katlicherra and Karimganj South have the highest number of candidates at 15 each

Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Thursday appealed to all voters of the state to come out in large numbers and exercise their Constitutional rights to secure their future

Polling for all 126 Assam assembly constituencies began at 7 am to decide the electoral fate of 722 candidates

In the high-stakes election, the ruling BJP is aiming for a third consecutive term, while the Congress seeks to wrest power after being ousted in 2016

Counting of the votes is scheduled for May 4.