Guwahati, 09 July (HS): AIUDF MLA Badruddin Ajmal on Thursday described the counterfeit currency racket as a greater threat than the drug menace, holding the government responsible for failing to curb the illegal trade and demanding the toughest possible action against those involved. He was addressing the Budget of Assam Legislative Assembly Session.

Referring to the recent seizure of a large cache of fake currency in Guwahati, Ajmal questioned the origin of the counterfeit notes and the network responsible for circulating them. He alleged that the flourishing racket reflected a 100% failure of the government.

Calling for stringent measures, Ajmal said individuals engaged in drug trafficking and counterfeit currency operations should face the harshest legal action, including police encounters, claiming such steps would effectively deter criminal activities.

Several MLAs have expressed their views on the fake currency note in the Assembly. Reacting to the incident, Assam Minister Biswajit Daimary said the issue was not limited to Assam and appealed to the public to assist law enforcement agencies by sharing information about those involved in such crimes. He thanked citizens who had already provided inputs to the police and assured that strict action would be taken against the culprits.

On the state's economic front, Daimary also noted that Assam was witnessing growing investment under the Advantage Assam initiative, reflecting the government's focus on industrial development.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA Manab Deka alleged that counterfeit currency was being printed using machines at Bongalmora in his constituency before being circulated as genuine notes. He said police had intensified their crackdown and arrested nine accused in connection with the racket two days ago.

The remarks from the political leaders come after a major fake currency seizure in Guwahati, with the police continuing their investigation to trace the larger network behind the operation.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash