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 cooking gas distributors across state.Sarma was addressing a poll rally in Mahmora constituency of Charaideo on Saturday. Election authorities, however, said they haven’t yet received any complaint alleging violation of the model code of conduct by the CM.“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),” the CM said at the campaign rally held in support of BJP candidate, Suruj Dihingia.He told the gathering that if BJP returns to office, free rice will continue, along with dal, sugar, salt and mustard oil at subsidised rates.Congress reacted strongly to the announcement, with its Assam media department chairperson, Bedabrat Bora, calling it a clear violation of 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.Bora also expressed surprise at EC “being silent” after the announcement.
