Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday described the appointment of senior BJP leader Ranjit Kumar Das as the Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly as a proud and emotional moment for lakhs of grassroots workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Addressing the Assembly after Das officially assumed office as Speaker, the Chief Minister highlighted the veteran leader’s long political journey and praised his experience, confidence and dedication to democratic principles.
Recalling the 2026 Assembly elections, Sarma said the BJP had fielded Das from the Sarbhog constituency, which was considered a politically challenging seat. He admitted that the contest was not easy and that the party faced uncertainty during the campaign.
The Chief Minister revealed that he had personally worried about taking “moral responsibility” if Das failed to win after being shifted from a comparatively safer constituency. However, he said Das remained optimistic throughout the election campaign and repeatedly assured him of a comfortable victory despite widespread political speculation and discussions on social media.
“Many people, including some from within our own party, questioned whether Ranjit Kumar Das would lose the election. But both of us were always confident about his victory,” Sarma said.
Das eventually won the Sarbhog seat by a significant margin in the 2026 Assembly polls, reinforcing the confidence shown during the campaign.
Sarma further stated that Das’ elevation to the post of Speaker was not just a personal achievement, but also a moment of pride for thousands of BJP workers from ordinary backgrounds who dedicate themselves to strengthening the party at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Das’ organisational experience in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and his understanding of parliamentary traditions would help him discharge his responsibilities successfully.
At the same time, Sarma urged the new Speaker to maintain complete neutrality while conducting proceedings in the Assembly. He said the House needed an impartial Speaker who would ensure that both the ruling party and the Opposition get equal opportunity to express their views.
Referring to the BJP’s guiding philosophy of “Nation First, Party Last,” the Chief Minister said Das should conduct the Assembly proceedings keeping the interests of Assam and the nation above political considerations.
Sarma also remarked that while the Speaker’s role inside the House must remain politically neutral, Das would continue to play an important role outside the Assembly as an elected representative of the people.