"Young blood, more women": Assam CM hints at BJP's candidate strategy for 2026 elections

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on November 23 hinted that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) candidate selection strategy for the 2026 Assembly elections may include 'young blood', indicating that the party is preparing to field new faces, young leaders, and more women candidates.

Speaking to reporters in Rangapara, the Chief Minister said the final decision on ticket distribution rests with the Central Parliamentary Committee chaired by BJP National President JP Nadda, but added that the party has consistently prioritized emerging talent.

“We have nothing to announce regarding election tickets right now. The Central Parliamentary Committee will take the final call,” he said. “But usually, one gets to see new faces in the BJP. We always strive to give opportunities to the youth, and we hope the number of women candidates will also increase.”

Highlighting the party’s commitment to youth representation, Sarma recalled how Krishna Kumar Tanti was fielded in the last Assembly polls as a young and dynamic choice. “Similarly, this time too, we will give tickets to young blood. Even a newcomer may receive a party ticket in the upcoming elections,” he added.

Sarma, however, did not disclose which constituencies may witness new candidates, stating that such decisions would be taken in due course.

The chief minister even hinted on contesting from a different constituency, due to the delimitation.

“I do not have my own constituency; I myself will have to contest from another constituency. This time too, we will give tickets to new and promising candidates. We will also prioritise women candidates this time", said Himanta Biswa Sarma.