Guwahati: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday cautioned against collecting flood relief donations by coercing individuals or business establishments, saying the police were directed to keep a close watch on such activities to prevent misuse in the name of flood assistance.Sarma said the state govt, with the support of the people of Assam, was capable of assisting those affected by the floods and that only voluntary contributions should be encouraged.“There is no need to collect donations in the name of flood relief. People are going around on the streets with boxes, collecting donations,” Sarma said.He maintained that collecting money from others and distributing it as relief under one’s own banner could not be regarded as genuine assistance.“If we can, we should contribute our own money. I have seen that scanners, etc. are being circulated to collect funds. That is not flood relief. I have asked the police to be vigilant so that shops, businesses and the general public are not forced to pay donations, as the situation is under the control of the govt,” he said.Sarma said contributions made voluntarily by individuals or groups using their own resources were welcome, but indiscriminate fund collection in the name of flood relief would not be appreciated by those affected and could damage Assam’s image.“I am hesitant to ask for funds from Delhi, let alone London. I try to ensure that we can provide for ourselves and our people are helping those affected,” he said, while avoiding a direct response to a question on an Assamese actor-dancer raising funds through live performances on the streets of London.“We do not need to ask for help in London or America. But if someone comes forward on their own, we don’t have a problem. It should not be sought, but come voluntarily,” the chief minister added.
