Detailed Notes
He assumed office following the sudden death of then Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia and led a caretaker government until the 1996 general elections were conducted.
1. Who Was Bhumidhar Barman?
Bhumidhar Barman (12 October 1931 – 18 April 2021) was a senior Indian politician associated with the Indian National Congress. He had a long and respected political career in Assam.
He was first elected to the Assam Legislative Assembly in 1967 and went on to become a member of the Assembly seven times, reflecting his strong political presence and public support in the state.
2. Why Was His Tenure So Short?
Bhumidhar Barman became Chief Minister during a politically sensitive time after the death of Hiteswar Saikia in April 1996. His appointment was mainly to ensure administrative continuity and stability until elections were completed.
Since he headed a caretaker government, his role was temporary, which resulted in his 22-day tenure.
3. Political Contributions Beyond His Short Tenure
Although his time as Chief Minister was brief, Bhumidhar Barman had a significant political career:
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Seven-time MLA in the Assam Legislative Assembly
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Senior leader of the Indian National Congress
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Served as a Cabinet Minister of Assam in 2015
His decades-long service in Assam politics remains more impactful than the short duration of his chief ministership.
4. Historical Significance
Bhumidhar Barman's 22-day tenure is often asked in Assam General Knowledge examinations and competitive exams. His case is an important example of a transitional or caretaker leadership in state politics.
Conclusion
Bhumidhar Barman holds the record as the shortest serving Chief Minister of Assam, serving only 22 days from 22 April 1996 to 14 May 1996. Despite his brief tenure, he had a long and influential political career spanning several decades in Assam.