Assam elections on schedule, says Gogoi

GUWAHATI - Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi Monday said that assembly elections will be held on schedule.

We have not sought early elections in Assam and want them on schedule, Gogoil told journalists. The term of the Congress-led government expires May 15, 2011.

We are, however, prepared to face (early elections) and are very much confident of making a hat-trick, Gogoi said.

Earlier in the day, the chief minister reviewed the law and order situation and various development projects with district police chiefs and deputy commissioners.

We have asked tough security measures against militant groups involved in violence and are at the same time keeping the doors open for peace talks if they abjure the path of violence, he said.

Gogoi took on the opposition parties, mainly the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP).

If the opposition can prove charges of corruption against me, then I am ready to quit politics. Even if any of my ministers are involved, action will be taken.

The chief minister was reacting to AGP charges that the government was involved in blatant corruption and misappropriation of funds.