Assam CM defends monetary gift ahead of Bihu

Guwahati: Under criticism from Opposition for announcing pre-Bihu monetary gift for poor and needy people, Assam CM Tarun Gogoi on Saturday hit back saying that he was ready to accept blame of playing politics if that would ensure the welfare and benefit of the people.
‘The Opposition doesn’t like when we give benefit to the poor people. They criticised our moves to provide incentives, like yarn, blankets, etc, earlier also. And they are doing the same once again,’ Gogoi said, in reply to the debate on the interim budget presented earlier by the CM, who also holds the Finance portfolio.
The interim budget had proposed monetary gift to poor and needy people before the Rongal Bihu in mid-April, marking Assamese New Year; a move described by the Opposition as targeting the Lok Sabha elections, likely to be held later in April.
Defending the proposal, the CM said, ‘The Opposition is saying that I am playing politics with this proposal. I accept their charge since my proposal seeks to benefit the people.’ “Some are saying that it is with an eye on the election. Let them say so. As long as people are benefited, I have no complains,” he added.
Gogoi questioned the Opposition’s target when they criticise the government and said, “Is it not with a view to impress the voters? If we can’t impress the people (with welfare schemes), we will not be able to win elections and continue working for their benefit.”
The interim budget of over Rs 28,467 crore for the first half of the financial year, starting April 2014 was later passed by a voice vote. (UNI)