Assam Chief Minister Announces Free LPG Cylinders for Festive Seasons
In a significant announcement during an election rally, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pledged to provide one free LPG cylinder to the people of Assam during both Bihu and Durga Puja festivals. This promise was made on Saturday at a campaign event in the Mahmora constituency of Charaideo, where long queues have been reported outside cooking gas distributors across the state.
Details of the Announcement at Poll Rally
Addressing a gathering in support of BJP candidate Suruj Dihingia, CM Sarma stated, "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 nickname by which he is known. He further elaborated that if the BJP returns to office, they will continue providing free rice along with subsidized rates for dal, sugar, salt, and mustard oil.
Congress Reaction and Allegations of MCC Violation
The announcement drew a strong reaction from the Congress party. Bedabrat Bora, chairperson of the Assam Congress media department, accused the Chief Minister of a clear violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). "After election dates are announced, the CM's role is mainly to look after law and order and disasters. Though legally he cannot announce schemes or dates of board exam results, he is doing so", Bora alleged. He also expressed surprise at the Election Commission's silence following the announcement.
Election Authorities' Response
Despite the allegations, election authorities have reported that they have not yet received any formal complaints regarding a violation of the model code of conduct by the Chief Minister. This development comes amid ongoing political campaigns in Assam, with parties gearing up for the upcoming elections.
The promise of free LPG cylinders aims to address the immediate needs of households during major festivals, potentially influencing voter sentiment. However, it has sparked a debate on the ethical boundaries of electioneering and the enforcement of electoral guidelines.
