Opposition parties cry foul play, demand repoll

Guwahati, Jan 10 (UNI) The Assam United Democratic Front(AUDF) and Asom Gana Parishad(AGP), the main opposition parties in the state, today demanded repolling in Hailakandi and parts of Karimganj and Cachar districts, where the last phase of Panchayat elections were held.

Addressing separate press conferences here, AGP president Brindabon Goswami and AUDF working president H R A Choudhury echoed similar opinions and blamed the Congress party for openly ''abusing the government machinery''.

There was widespread violence in Hailkandi and Karimganj districts yesterday with more than 50 people being injured. In the Hailkandi district, there were reports of widespread rigging as about 200 polling booth personnel walked off from duty and burnt all the polling material in front of the district Election Commission office.

Mr Chaudhury alleged that senior Assam Minister Gautam Prasad Roy and his son Rahul Roy, both MLAs, ran a parallel administration in the districts and did not allow opposition members to vote.

They also submitted a memorandum to Assam Governor Lt Gen Ajay Singh demanding his immediate intervention. They also accused the State Election Commission of playing a biased role.

AGP President Mr Goswami meanwhile said the government deliberately did not send paramilitary forces to the Hailkandi district so that they could create violence.

The State Election Commission is pondering over the demands but yet to announce its decision. Repolling will take place in at least 300 polling booths, the Election office here informed.

UNI MT LL PB RAI1804