BJP draws flak over 'jobs scam' in Assam

The ruling BJP in Assam is facing the flak from opposition parties over alleged jobs scam in two government departments, ahead of Lok Sabha polls.

Opposition Congress have demanded a CBI inquiry stating that the alleged scam put question marks on chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s frequent promise of a corruption-free state. Allegation is that relatives of ministers and BJP leaders were selected for over 950 posts in panchayat and rural development department and in the department of information and public relations, while deserving candidates were sidelined.

“What happened to Sonowal’s slogan of corruption-free administration? Let them order an inquiry by CBI if there was no favoritism to candidates of their party,” former chief minister Tarun Gogoi said recently.

The criticism ahead of Lok Sabha polls prompted Sonowal order an inquiry by a senior IAS officer Jishnu Baruah. But claims by leader of BJP’s state unit that there was no unfair means in the recruitment process added fuel to the protests by various groups.

“When the chief minister ordered an inquiry into the panchayat department scam, BJP leaders on Tuesday claimed that there was no scam. This proves the ruling party is trying to protect those involved in the unfair means adopted in the recruitment process. Most of the jobs have been provided to relatives of ministers or relatives of BJP leaders,” peasants’ rights activist, Akhil Gogoi said.

“Sonowal has no moral right to claim about good governance and corruption free administration, at a time when one of the biggest jobs scams have taken place under his tenure,” said Akhil, who leads Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti. The samiti has been vocal against BJP and its policies.

BJP leaders said Akhil and former chief minister Gogoi were making “baseless allegations” to defame the party and garner political points before the Lok Sabha polls. Elections to 14 Lok Sabha seats will be held on April 11, 18 and 23.