Guwahati: Today, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a strict ban on unauthorised flood relief collection drives being carried out on public roads, warning that legal action will be taken against anyone found forcibly collecting donations in the name of flood victims.
The Chief Minister said no person or organisation would be permitted to solicit contributions by standing on roadsides with donation boxes or displaying QR codes to collect money from motorists and pedestrians.
"Nobody will be allowed to collect money on public roads in the name of flood relief," Sarma said, adding that those violating the directive would face strict action by the police.
He further stated that clear instructions had been issued to the Assam Police to immediately stop all unauthorised fundraising activities across the state. As per Himanta Biswa Sarma, people carrying collection boxes or using QR codes at traffic intersections and other public places would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The directive follows reports of several people and groups seeking donations in the name of assisting flood-affected people. The state government has urged citizens to make contributions only through authorised channels to ensure that relief funds reach genuine beneficiaries in a transparent and accountable manner.