Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday promised one free LPG cylinder to every person during Bihu and Durga Puja. Long queues were seen outside cooking gas distributors across the state when the announcement was made.
Sarma was addressing an election rally in support of BJP candidate Suraj Dihingia in the Mahmora constituency of Charaideo district on Saturday. At the rally, he said, “We will give people one free gas cylinder each for Bihu and Durga Puja. Mama will pay for these two cylinders.”
Other promises by the BJP if it returns to power
The CM told the gathering that if the BJP returns to power, free rice will continue, and pulses, sugar, salt and mustard oil will also be made available at subsidised rates.
The Congress party has reacted strongly to the announcement, with Assam Congress media department chief Bedabrata Bora calling it a clear violation of the model code of conduct.
Bora alleged that after the election dates are announced, the chief minister’s primary role is to manage law and order and disasters. He said that legally, he cannot announce any new schemes or board exam result dates, but he is doing so.
Bedabrata Bora also expressed surprise at the Election Commission’s silence following the announcement. However, election officials have stated that they have not yet received any complaints of the Chief Minister violating the Model Code of Conduct.
