Bhilai (Chhattisgarh), Nov 12 (IANS): Congress president Sonia Gandhi Tuesday accused the 10-year-old BJP government in Chhattisgarh of not paying attention to people's welfare despite receiving large central funds.

She accused the BJP government of making tall claims and false promises and said the reality was that the people of Chhattisgarh had faced only difficulties in the past 10 years.

"The central government sends huge sums under welfare schemes but the people of the state are still suffering," said Gandhi, while referring to the rural job plan MGNREGA during a campaign rally here.

The first phase of polling for 18 of the 90 seats in the Chhattisgarh assembly was held Monday. The second phase of balloting for 72 seats would take place Nov 19.

She assured the people that the Congress remained committed to the development of the state.

"Our aim and intention is to put the people from deprived sections of the society on the path of progress and development," said Gandhi.

Chhattisgarh Congress president Charandas Mahant said his party would provide 35 kg of free rice to the people if voted to power.

He said the farmers in the state had been duped in the last 10 years.

"We will provide employment for one and all and will free the people from the clutches of BJP," said Mahant.

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