Sena Revolt Helped Highlight Assam Flood: Chief Minister Himanta Sarma

Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly denied that he has any role in the Sena power tussle that threatens to toppled the Uddhav Thackeray goverment

Responding to criticism for allegedly hosting rebel Shiv Sena MLAs at a Guwahati hotel instead of focusing on floods in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today said he is glad that the tussle in Sena has helped highlight the flood situation in the Northeastern state.

Mr Sarma, who has repeatedly denied that he has any role in the Sena power tussle that threatens to toppled the Uddhav Thackeray goverment, told the media, "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."

Despite Mr Sarma's assertions, sightings of Assam ministers and BJP leaders at the Guwahati hotel where Sena's rebel leaders are staying suggest that the state BJP is providing logistic support to them.

"Our job is to provide security and comfortable 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," Mr Sarma said, according to news agency ANI.