Assam, the northeastern state of India, has witnessed a dynamic political landscape since its inception. From the early days of statehood in 1950 to the present year of 2024, Assam has seen a succession of Chief Ministers who have shaped its political, social, and economic trajectory. Let’s delve into the list of former Chief Ministers who have led Assam through various challenges and triumphs over the years.
Who is the Chief Minister of a State?
In India, the Chief Minister serves as the head of the state government, wielding significant executive authority despite the Governor being the official head as per the Constitution. Article 164 of the Indian Constitution outlines the process by which the Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other Ministers. Essentially, the Chief Minister holds the reins of governance, leading the state’s administration and decision-making processes.
Chief Ministers of Assam
Since 1950, Assam has been governed by a total of 14 Chief Ministers. With the recent appointment of Himanta Biswa Sarma, he becomes the 15th Chief Minister of Assam. Over the decades, Assam’s leadership has seen a succession of premiers, each leaving their mark on the state’s political, social, and economic landscape through their governance and policies.
First Chief Minister of Assam
Gopinath Bordoloi, Assam’s inaugural Chief Minister from 1946 to 1950, was not only a prominent Indian freedom fighter but also a respected politician. He chaired crucial committees like the North-East Frontier Tribal Areas and Assam Excluded and Partially Excluded Areas Sub-Committee. Bordoloi’s commitment to Gandhian principles, especially non-violence, profoundly influenced his political beliefs. Revered for his altruistic contributions, he earned the title “Lokpriya” from Assam’s Governor, Jayram Das Doulatram, symbolizing his immense popularity and dedication to the people of Assam.
Current Chief Minister of Assam
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma assumed office as the 15th Chief Minister of Assam on May 10, 2021, succeeding Sarbananda Sonowal. With his swearing-in, Sarma undertook the leadership of the state, marking a new chapter in Assam’s governance. As the current Chief Minister, Sarma shoulders the responsibility of steering the state towards progress and development.
First Woman Chief Minister of Assam
Syeda Anwara Taimur, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress party in Assam, made history as the first female and Muslim Chief Minister of Assam, serving from December 6, 1980, to June 30, 1981. As a member of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), she broke barriers and paved the way for women in Assam’s political landscape. Presently, Himanta Biswa Sarma holds the position of Chief Minister of Assam in 2021.
Longest Serving Chief Minister of Assam
Tarun Gogoi, an esteemed Indian politician and lawyer, held the position of the 13th Chief Minister of Assam from 2001 to 2016. Renowned for his leadership, Gogoi remains the longest-serving Chief Minister in the history of Assam. His tenure marked a significant period of governance and development in the state, leaving a lasting impact on Assam’s political landscape.
Shortest Serving Chief Minister of Assam
Bhumidhar Barman holds the record for the shortest tenure as Chief Minister of Assam, serving a mere 22 days in office. Despite his brief stint, Barman’s role in Assam’s political history remains notable, reflecting the dynamics and challenges inherent in the state’s governance during his brief tenure.
List of Former Chief Ministers of Assam (1950-2024)
Since 1950, Assam has been governed by a total of 14 Chief Ministers. With the recent appointment of Himanta Biswa Sarma, he becomes the 15th Chief Minister of Assam.
Here is the list of former Chief Ministers of Assam from 1950– 2024:
Former Chief Ministers of Assam (1950-2024) | |||
S. No. | Name | From | To |
1. | Gopinath Bordoloi | 11 Feb 1946 | 06 Aug 1950 |
2. | Bishnu Ram Medhi | 09 Aug 1950 | 27 Dec 1957 |
3. | Bimala Prasad Chaliha | 29 Dec 1957 | 06 Nov 1970 |
4. | Mahendra Mohan Choudhary | 11 Nov 1970 | 30 Jan 1972 |
5. | Sarat Chandra Sinha | 31 Jan 1972 | 12 Mar 1978 |
6. | Golap Borbora | 12 Mar 1978 | 04 Sep 1979 |
7. | Jogendra Nath Hazarika | 09 Sep 1979 | 11 Dec 1979 |
8. | President’s Rule | 12 Dev 1979 | 05 Dec 1980 |
9. | Anwara Taimur | 06 December 1980 | 30 Jun 1981 |
10. | President’s Rule | 30 Jun 1981 | 13 Jan 1982 |
11. | Kesab Chandra Gogoi | 13 Jan 1982 | 19 Mar 1982 |
12. | Present’s Rule | 19 Mar 1982 | 27 Feb 1983 |
13. | Histeswar Saikia | 27 Feb 1983 | 23 Dec 1985 |
14. | Prafulla Kumar Mahanta | 24 Dec 1985 | 28 Nov 1990 |
15. | President’s Rule | 28 Nov 1990 | 30 Jun 1991 |
16. | Hiteswar Saikia | 30 Jun 1991 | 22 April 1996 |
17. | Bhumidhar Barman | 22 Apr 1996 | 14 May 1996 |
18. | Prafulla Kumar Mahanta | 15 May 1996 | 17 May 2001 |
19. | Tarun Gogoi | 17 May 2001 | 24 May 2016 |
20. | Sarbananda Sonowal | 24 May 2016 | 10 May 2021 |
21. | Himanta Biswa Sarma | 10 May 2021 | Present |