133 Bengal people take refuge in Assam: CM Himanta Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said over 100 people from West Bengal have taken shelter in the state, fearing for their lives because of the panchayat election violence back home.

Stating that the people have been provided shelter in a relief camp, the chief minister assured them of “any humanitarian aid during times of crisis”.

While West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari thanked Sarma for “providing relief to the tormented opposition party karyakartas of WB”, cabinet minister of the neighbouring state Shashi Panja hinted that the Assam CM was “raising a false alarm and creating a sense of panic”.

“Yesterday, 133 individuals who feared for their lives due to violence in the panchayat election in West Bengal sought refuge in Dhubri district of Assam. We have provided them with shelter in a relief camp, as well as food and medical assistance,” Sarma wrote on Twitter.

Expressing gratitude to Sarma, Adhikari, who is the leader of opposition of West Bengal, wrote: “I would like to thank the Hon’ble CM of Assam Shri @himantabiswa Ji for providing relief to the tormented Opposition Party Karyakartas of WB, especially those from BJP, who time & again are subjected to poll-related violence and being in close proximity to the state of Assam, they find it safe to cross over with their families for their safety.”

Sarma was also quick to respond to Adhikari on the micro-blogging site and assured of help in all times of need. “We consider the people of West Bengal as our valued and respected neighbours.