Asom: Sonia inauguration kicks off controversy

Guwahati, Jan 20: The Asom government's decision of inviting UPA chairman Sonia Gandhi to inaugurate the 33rd National Games in Februray has raked up a controversy in the state, with the main opposition AGP launching a tirade against the decision.

Critisising the government's decision to inaugurate the National Games through Mrs Gandhi the Asom Gana Parishad alleged that the Congress was trying to gain political mileage from the sporting event.

AGP chief and leader of opposition Brindabon Goswami said such events should be inaugurated by the President or the Prime Minister.

Mr Goswami further said the AGP had refrained from commenting on the National Games so that the mega sporting event is not shrouded in a political controversy.

''But the ruling Congress has used it to its advantage,'' he added.

Meanwhile, a Games Village was formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi in Barsajai area of the city today.

He also released the tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies on February 9 and February 18 respectively. The tickets for the ceremonies had been priced as the stadium hosting the function can accommodate 30,000 people.

Mr Gogoi reiterated the state government's commitment of holding the Games as per schedule and in a smooth and safe manner.

The Village is spread over 13 acres of land, with a gamut of facilities, to accommodate 8,000 players and officials in 252 two-bedroom and 448 three-bedroom apartments.

The total cost in constructing the sports village was over Rs 113 crore, almost half of the total expenditure on Games infrastructure.

UNI