Assam Chief Minister Announces Free LPG Cylinders for Festive Seasons
In a significant political move, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared on Saturday that the state government will provide one free LPG cylinder to residents during both Rongali Bihu and Durga Puja. This announcement was made during an election rally in the Mahmora constituency of Charaideo district, where Sarma was campaigning for BJP candidate Suruj Dihingia.
Festival Benefits Amid Election Campaign
Sarma, popularly referred to as Mama, emphasized that the distribution would be fully funded by the government, stating, "In Bihu and Durga Puja, we will distribute one gas cylinder each free of cost to the people. For these two cylinders, the payment will be done by Mama." Rongali Bihu, Assam's premier cultural festival celebrated in mid-April, is fast approaching, adding urgency to the promise.
Additionally, the Chief Minister outlined further welfare measures if the BJP retains power, including the continuation of free rice and subsidized rates for essential items such as dal, sugar, salt, and mustard oil.
Opposition Alleges Model Code of Conduct Violation
The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Congress party, which alleges a clear breach of the model code of conduct (MCC) currently in force due to ongoing elections. Bedabrat Bora, chairperson of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee's media department, accused Sarma of overstepping legal boundaries.
"After election dates are announced, the CM's role is mainly to look after law-and-order situations and disasters. Though legally he cannot announce schemes or dates of board examination results, he is doing so," Bora asserted. He also expressed concern over the Election Commission's silence, calling it "full of mystery."
Election Commission's Stance and Public Response
Despite the allegations, election authorities in Assam have confirmed that no formal complaint regarding an MCC violation by the Chief Minister has been received yet. This lack of official action has fueled debates on the enforcement of electoral guidelines.
Meanwhile, reports of long queues outside gas agencies in various parts of the state highlight public anticipation for the promised benefits, underscoring the announcement's immediate impact on local communities.
