Guwahati: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday promised to give one free LPG cylinder each during Bihu and Durga Puja, even as long queues were reported outside gas agencies in several parts of the state.Sarma made the announcement while addressing an election rally in Mahmora constituency of Charaideo district on Saturday, drawing criticism from the opposition as the model code of conduct (MCC) is in force.Election authorities here, however, said they haven’t yet received any complaint alleging an MCC violation by the chief minister.“In Bihu and Durga Puja, we will distribute one gas cylinder each free of cost to the people.
In Bihu one, and in Durga Puja the other one. For these two cylinders, the payment will be done by Mama (a name with which Sarma is known),” Sarma said at the campaign rally held in support of BJP candidate Suruj Dihingia.Rongali Bihu, the state’s biggest cultural festival, is celebrated in mid-April and is now approaching.Sarma also told the gathering that if BJP returns to power, free rice would continue, along with dal, sugar, salt and mustard oil at subsidised rates.
Congress reacted strongly to the announcement, with Assam PCC media department chairperson Bedabrat Bora calling it a clear violation of the MCC. “After election dates are announced, CM’s role is mainly to look after law-and-order situation and disasters. Though legally he cannot announce schemes or dates of board examination results, he is doing so,” Bora alleged.He also expressed surprise at the Election Commission “being silent” after the announcement. “Election Commission sitting down silently after such an announcement by the CM is full of mystery,” he said.
