Congress Approaches EC, Seeks FIR Against Assam CM

The Congress on Tuesday petitioned the Election Commission to register an FIR against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and bar him from campaigning for the upcoming bypolls in the state for five assembly seats due to violation of the model code of conduct.

Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala and party in-charge for Assam Jitendra Singh met Election Commission officials and sought their intervention for initiating action against Sarma for violating the model code.

"In view of the circumstances, we urge the Election Commission to direct the lodging of an FIR and debarring Himanta Biswa Sarma for engaging in corrupt practices and for violating the model code of conduct," the memorandum to EC said.

"We also urge the Election Commission to the direct the lodging of FIR and suspension, removal and initiation of disciplinary action against the Gossaigaon district officials favouring the ruling BJP and acting against the Congress," it further said.

The Election Commission on Monday issued a show-cause notice to Sarma for violating the model code by promising roads and other development projects while campaigning for the assembly bypolls in the state. He was given time till 5 pm on Tuesday to respond to the notice.