Date:07/03/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/03/07/stories/2006030706531200.htm

Other States - Assam

Congress violating code: Assam Opposition

Special Correspondent

EC in State to assess preparations The parties expressed apprehension that the Congress might resort to rigging

Guwahati: Opposition parties in Assam complained to the Election Commission on Monday that the Congress was violating the model code of conduct.

The Asom Gana Parishad, the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Communist Party of India, the CPI (M) and the Nationalist Congress Party called on Chief Election Commissioner B.B. Tandon and the other two members, Navin B. Chawla and N. Gopalswamy, separately here to draw their attention to media reports on backdated appointments and distribution of cash, cheques and yarn under government schemes even after the election dates were announced.

The parties expressed an apprehension that the Congress might resort to rigging, booth capturing and intimidation of voters, and urged the Commission to deploy adequate paramilitary forces to ensure vigil over 5,000 sensitive and 2,009 highly sensitive booths.

The CEC and the two Commissioners were on two-day visit to the State to assess the preparation for the election, scheduled for April 3 and 10.

The CEC held meetings with the Chief Electoral Officer, the Chief Secretary, the Director-General of Police and other officials.

Congress denies allegation

The Congress denied the Opposition allegations and said the EC could take action if there was any violation of the code.