Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today termed as “unfortunate” the violent incidents in the trouble-torn Goalpara district during panchayat polls today where at least eight persons were killed.
Gogoi told reporters in Guwahati that the death of eight people, opposing holding of Panchayat elections ahead of Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council polls, in Goalpara district was extremely unfortunate.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. Image courtesy PIB
The chief minister said that it was the “constitutional duty” of the government to hold panchayat elections and nobody could “disturb the democratic process”.
“We had already promised to hold elections in the Rabha Hasong Council areas after the panchayat polls and as such today’s violence was uncalled for,” he added.
He further said that arrangements would be made to hold the elections later in those areas where polling had to be postponed due to violence.
The chief minister announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of those killed in police firing and Rs 50,000 to the injured.
He also announced adequate compensation to those whose houses and other properties were damaged in the violence.
PTI
