Guwahati, March 18: The Opposition BJP today demanded a high-level inquiry into the alleged collection of commissions by Congress leaders in Delhi for releasing funds meant for welfare of the indigenous population in the Northeast.

The party’s national secretary and ex-MP, Tapir Gao, today said, “Assam deputy speaker Pranati Phukan, during a sting operation by a satellite news channel, had admitted that the government department meant for tribal welfare in Delhi takes at least two per cent commission while releasing funds for development of tribals in the region. We demand a high-level inquiry into the revelations of Phukan and let people know the reality.”

The BJP leader from Arunachal Pradesh said the party would conduct an inquiry into the incident and launch a campaign against this ahead of the Assembly election.

“Our president Nitin Gadkari has issued instructions and decided to form a committee to probe the entire incident and the revelations made by Phukan. After the inquiry, we will submit the report to President Pratibha Patil,” Gao said.

BJP national vice-president and Lok Sabha MP, Bijoya Chakraborty, expressed confidence that the party would give tough fight to the ruling Congress in the ensuing poll.

“During campaigning at Morigaon and Nagaon, we have received an overwhelming response. This shows how people are unhappy over massive corruption and lack of development by the ruling party,” Chakraborty said.

“While the state government is beating its drum and crowing about its development activities, the ground reality is just the opposite. The common people are unhappy with the Congress and the state is poised for change of guard after the Assembly election,” she said.

BJP national general secretary Arti Mehra said yesterday the party was not averse to joining hands with the AIDUF if the post-poll scenario dictated such a move. The AIDUF has, however, ruled out any such possibility saying the party would remain away from the Congress and the BJP, no matter what.