April 5, 2025: Assam Education and Tribal Affairs Minister Ranoj Pegu expressed optimism over the upcoming Panchayat elections, stating that the results would be favorable for the BJP, similar to the outcome of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council elections. The minister arrived in Biswanath on Friday night after being appointed as the district in-charge for the polls.

During a meeting with party workers at the BJP office in Biswanath, Pegu hinted at a strategic alliance, confirming that seat sharing with allied parties would take place and that elections would be contested jointly.

He also remarked that as ward member elections are not held on party lines, it has provided the public a unique kind of independence in shaping grassroots democratic systems like the Panchayati Raj.

Commenting on the recent cancellation of Class 11 examinations, the minister clarified that the exams were initially intended as preparation for the Class 12 board exams. However, due to question paper leaks from a few schools and the onset of Panchayat elections, conducting the exams before May 15 was deemed impractical.

“In order to avoid further delays, schools have been authorized to evaluate students based on their unit tests or half-yearly exam performances. Students will then be allowed to proceed with admission into Class 12,” said Minister Pegu.

The developments come at a critical time as both the electoral and academic calendars intersect, requiring timely decisions to balance governance and education.