AASU to block NH in Assam over flood issues

Guwahati, Sep 23: The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) today announced a state-wide national highways blockade against the alleged failure of the state and Centre in mitigating the woes of the flood-hit population.

AASU general secretary Tapan Gogoi said the NH blockade would be carried for one hour on September 28 next across the state.

''In capital city Guwahati, one of the main roads will be blocked as no NH passes through the city,'' he added.

The blockade would be carried out by the AASU and the Unnati Sabha jointly, AASU president Shankar Prasad Rai said.

AASU advisor Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya alleged that the government had failed in providing relief and rehabilitation to the flood-affected people.

''The prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed and the government has failed to solve it. There are no medical facilities for the flood-ravaged areas,'' he added.

Dr Bhattacharyya said the blockade is being planned to expose the 'failure' of the state government and 'betrayal' of the Centre.

The Prime Minister represents the state and yet the flood-hit people are reeling under sever problems, he added.

He informed that the AASU would take up more intense agitations if the government does not respond to the NH blockade.

The students' leaders also criticised the Opposition for not being bold enough to voice the problems of the people and failing to play the role of an 'effective opposition'.

They also slammed the water resources and food supply ministers for allegedly failing to carry out their responsibilities, leading to the present state of affairs.

UNI