Date:11/05/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/11/stories/2007051105650300.htm

Other States - Assam

PM visits his home in Assam

Prime Minister visits house that he has rented since 1991

Manmohan Singh

Guwahati: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's permanent address is in Assam and it is a house here that he has rented since 1991 from the late Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia. Prior to filing his nomination papers on Wednesday for re-election to the Rajya Sabha from the State, Dr. Singh visited house no. 3989 located at Nandan Nagar, ward no. 51, Sarumataria in Dispur.

Sips coconut water

On his arrival, he was received by his late landlord's son D. Saikia. He spent a few minutes in the house and sipped coconut water.

Dr. Singh visited the portion of the building he had taken on rent for about Rs. 700 a month, an amount he continues to pay even now, Mr. Saikia said.

He looked around, particularly at his books, which he found in the same place he had left them when he last visited the house, Mr. Saikia said. The Prime Minister talked with officials accompanying him in his drawing room and then went into his bedroom for a short while to "look at his books and belongings," Mr. Saikia quoted him as saying.

He greeted his neighbours and all those who gathered there to see the distinguished visitor.Dr. Singh entered the Rajya Sabha from Assam in 1991 to begin his political career and rented a part of Saikia's residence as his permanent address.

PTI