CM Sarbananda Sonowal launches ‘SAMARTHAN’ project to help poor and needy

Dispur urges States to ensure the safety of people from Assam

OUR CORRESPONDENT

BONGAIGAON: “Many rumours regarding COVID-19 are getting circulated through social media. We urge the people not to believe in them. Please log on to our government websites,” said Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday in Bongaigaon while addressing media persons during his visit of the district to take stock of the present situation.

During his visit, Sonowal visited the 200-bedded civil hospital and interacted with the hospital staff. Then he held a meeting in the DC’s Conference Hall where State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Phani Bhusan Choudhury, Deputy Commissioner MS Laxmipriya, Superintendent of Police Singharam Mili, and other officials were present. He gave directives to the district administration to prevent COVID-19 outbreak.

The Chief Minister also launched a project named Samarthan — an initiative of the Bongaigaon district administration — to help the poor and the needy during this crucial lockdown period. “Any person and organization wishing to join hands with the Bongaigaon district administration in the fight against COVID-19 can purchase a gift voucher of Rs 200 each. The donor can opt for a newborn baby kit, ladies’ kit or family kit as mentioned in the coupon,” said the Deputy Commissioner.

STAFF REPORTER ADDS: Chief Minister Sonowal on Monday said that his Government has written to the other State Governments to ensure the safety and security of the people of Assam currently living in those States amidst the nation-wide lockdown.

Sonowal told reporters in Bongaigaon on Monday that the Government is trying its best to ensure secured refuge along with other basic necessities for the people of Assam staying in other States during the lockdown period.

The Chief Minister’s assurance has come close on the heels of concerns expressed by parents and guardians over safety of their children currently living outside Assam. There are reports and allegations that the people from the North East currently living in Delhi and other metro cities are facing discrimination and racial abuse.

The indigenous literary bodies on Monday demanded Sonowal’s intervention to ensure that the people do not face any hardship outside the State during the lockdown.

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