Why Are BJP Leaders Silent During Punjab's Flood Crisis?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Silence of BJP leaders during Punjab's flood crisis raises concerns.
- Aman Arora calls for increased relief funding from the Central government.
- The Haryana government's stance on water allocation is questioned.
- Political unity is essential to address the crisis effectively.
- Punjab has suffered significant crop losses due to flooding.
Chandigarh, Aug 30 (NationPress) The silence of BJP leaders amid the ongoing crisis in Punjab is astonishing, remarked Punjab Cabinet Minister Aman Arora on Saturday. He criticized the BJP for their lack of action, stating, "Instead of urging the Central government to promptly release a relief package during these critical times, BJP leaders are preoccupied with undermining the state administration." Arora, who also leads the AAP unit in Punjab, made these comments while initiating the dispatch of 11 trucks loaded with relief materials for flood-stricken regions.
He pointed out the Haryana government’s declaration regarding the reduction of the water quota, which he believes reveals the true nature of the BJP-led Haryana government, the Central government, and Punjab's BJP representatives. Arora expressed his disbelief at the inaction of Punjab’s BJP leaders during this dire situation.
He highlighted the irony of the situation, saying, “While Punjab is in dire need of water for its agriculture, Haryana is requesting more water. Now, when Punjab is asking Haryana to release excess water to alleviate flooding, the Haryana government claims it no longer requires the water and is even suggesting a cut in the allocated quota."
He challenged, “Where is the fairness in this? When Punjab is grappling with floods, it is left to fend for itself, yet Haryana is quick to divest itself of any responsibility regarding the management of surplus water.”
Arora urged the Central government to enhance the meager compensation of Rs 6,800 per acre. He stated, “Punjab, the country’s granary, has encountered immense crop losses across vast areas, and thus, deserves a dedicated relief package.”
He called upon opposition parties to prioritize the welfare of the people over politics, emphasizing that Punjab is currently enduring a significant natural disaster.
Due to cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh, several districts in Punjab have been severely impacted.
“From the outset, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, along with all ministers, MLAs, and the administration, have been actively involved in relief efforts. The Punjab government is committed to safeguarding the lives, properties, and economic resources of its citizens.”
However, Arora stressed that “it is our collective moral obligation to unite and support those who have been affected.”