'Grateful that Sena MLAs came because..': Assam CM amid Maharashtra crisis
India Today
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the arrival of rebel Shiv Sena MLAs in Guwahati highlighted the flood situation in Assam.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said that he is grateful that some Shiv Sena MLAs came to Guwahati because it highlighted the flood situation in the state. His response came amid allegations that the chief minister was focused on hosting rebel MLAs instead of focusing on floods.
"We have 200 hotels in Guwahati and all have guests. Would we remove guests stating the flood situation? BJP is supporting (rebel MLAs) in Maharashtra, I won't get involved," Sarma said.
"Our job is to provide security, comfort stay to anyone who's come from outside. Tomorrow, even if Congress comes, I will extend the same welcome. I am grateful Shiv Sena came, its the reason Assam's flood was highlighted," he added.
The BJP leader also dismissed his party's involvement in hosting the Shinde-led rebel MLAs by calling the allegations baseless. The luxury hotel bill is not being paid by the BJP, he said.
On Wednesday, the Assam CM visited the hotel hosting the rebel Shiv Sena and the Opposition leaders lashed out at the CM for ignoring the flood situation in the state and indulging in politics. CM Sarma has refuted the allegations, saying there are many good hotels in the state and anyone can come and stay there.
Shiv Sena rebel MLAs, led by Eknath Shinde, are camped up at a hotel in Guwahati, a move which has plunged the ruling MVA government into crisis. Shinde has claimed that he has the support of over 40 MLAs.
