Guwahati, Feb 16: The Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly began on Monday, the final session of the current term, as Congress MLAs protested demanding justice for Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, who died on September 19, 2025.

Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia emphasized that the case is before the court but not an election matter. “I hope the judges will hear it seriously and not dismiss it. The family wants a fast-track trial, and we are demanding the same,” Saikia told reporters.

Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika detailed the four-day schedule: the Governor’s address today followed by discussion, the Finance Minister’s vote on account tomorrow with debate, and the session wrapping up thereafter. “This is not a full budget. We must outline our plans if re-elected,” he said.Minister Nandita Garlosa noted the Assembly’s history of key decisions and expressed hope that the last session would meet public expectations.Congress MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal announced his intent to contest from Goalpara West, promising details at 3 pm, without discussing party switches.

BJP MLA Manab Deka confirmed the Governor’s address and interim budget, criticizing the opposition for shifting focus from “Assamese” issues to “Mia,” while praising CM Himanta Biswa Sarma as an “ordinary man serving the state.”

AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam vowed protests on multiple issues, accusing the government of polarization ahead of a Supreme Court hearing on petitions against CM Sarma for alleged hate speech.