"Congress violating code of conduct," AGP

Guwahati, Mar 6 (UNI) The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) today alleged that the ruling Congress in Asom had been violating Model Code of Conduct, set by the Election Commission (EC).

In a memorandum to Chief Election Commissioner B B Tandon and Election Commissioners N Gopalaswamy and Mr N B Chawla, who arrived here on a two-day visit, the AGP alleged that the state government was issuing backdated appointment letters to its party cadres and work orders for construction and supply works to contractors, who would contribute to the party's poll fund.

The party, quoting local media reports, alleged that these activities were more rampant in Education, Revenue, Health and Family Welfare, Panchayat and Rural Development departments of the state government.

The AGP further alleged that many government officers were working in connivance with the ruling party to further the latter's agenda.

Pointing out that 5000 and 2009 polling booths had been identified as sensitive and highly sensitive in the state, the party demanded adequate security arrangements to ensure free and fair polls.

The main Opposition party in the state also requested deployment of Central Observers well ahead of the polls and stressed the need for an EC control office here immediately.

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