Guwahati: Focus should remain on rescue, relief and rehabilitation, not on VIP visits, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Friday, shooting down criticism from opposition and student organisations over PM Narendra Modi not visiting flood-hit districts in Assam.Sarma said VIP visits at this time could disrupt operations.“These are issues for debate. The PM is helping us through the banking moratorium, financial assistance and by empowering the state govt to take whatever decisions are required. We are in constant touch with the PM and the Union home minister,” he added.“If the PM comes, the district administration will have to remain busy three days ahead of his visit making arrangements. The question is whether his visit at this point will help the relief measures,” Sarma said.The CM said he, too, limited his visits to avoid burdening administrations. “If I go, I am accompanied by 20 to 25 vehicles. Then people criticise that as well. Some student organisations have even said, ‘come, but don’t come with an escort or pilot.’ These are practical issues that have to be considered,” he added.Sarma maintained there was “no lack” of support from Modi. “He has empowered me to do whatever I want to announce. As far as support is concerned, we are getting it,” he said.“At the right moment, he will take a call on when he wants to come. People should have trust that he will never abandon the people of Assam,” Sarma added.He claimed the flood response was more systematic than in previous years.
