100 Days in Office: A Look at Governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Puducherry

Exactly 100 days have passed since the newly elected governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, and the Union Territory of Puducherry assumed office. The elections to the legislative assemblies of these states and the Union Territory were held in April–May this year, and the results were announced on May 2. The outcomes saw a mix of continuity and change, with some parties retaining power and others crossing over.

In Kerala, the Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), won a second consecutive term, and Pinarayi Vijayan was sworn in as Chief Minister for a second time. The LDF’s victory was notable because it came after a full five-year term, a rarity in the state’s political history. Over the past 100 days, the government has focused on infrastructure, health, and education, while also addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tamil Nadu witnessed a change of guard as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance swept the elections, unseating the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government. M.K. Stalin became the Chief Minister, ending a decade of AIADMK rule. The new government marked its first 100 days by announcing initiatives in agriculture, welfare schemes, and efforts to attract investment, amid the ongoing pandemic response.

West Bengal, contrary to some pre-poll forecasts, saw the Trinamool Congress (TMC) retain power for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made substantial gains but did not secure a majority. The TMC government completed 100 days with a focus on social welfare schemes and resumption of developmental projects, while the Opposition has pressed for greater accountability on law and order.

In Assam, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) retained power, but with a new Chief Minister. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who was a Cabinet minister in the previous government, replaced Sarbananda Sonowal after the elections. The change of leadership was seen as a strategic move to consolidate the NDA's position. In the first 100 days, the Sarma government prioritised flood management, health infrastructure, and the implementation of the Assam Accord clause.

Puducherry, a Union Territory with a legislative assembly, saw the NDA come to power, with N. Rangasamy of the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) leading the government. This was a change from the earlier Congress-led administration, which had collapsed following internal dissent. The new government has completed 100 days, focusing on administration, welfare, and infrastructure, though it operates with limited legislative strength and the backing of the BJP.

The 100-day milestone is often used as an early indicator of a government's style and priorities. It is not a verdict on long-term performance but offers a snapshot of initial actions and governance direction. As these governments move ahead, their actions over this brief period are being scrutinised by citizens and analysts alike.

The Hindu has published a collection of articles examining the 100 days of each government, offering a state-wise analysis of their achievements, challenges, and public reception. These reports provide a detailed perspective on how each administration is navigating the post-election phase, including the management of the pandemic and economic recovery.