Did Mamata Banerjee Hold Bhutan Responsible for North Bengal Floods and Demand Compensation?
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Synopsis
West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, has accused Bhutan of causing flooding in North Bengal by releasing excess water. She demands compensation for the damages and criticizes the Central government for lack of disaster support. The state plans to provide financial assistance to affected families.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee blames Bhutan for severe flooding in North Bengal.
- The state government demands compensation from Bhutan.
- Financial assistance of Rs 1.20 lakh will be given to affected households.
- Meeting on flooding issues scheduled for October 16.
- State government committed to aiding flood victims.
Kolkata, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, on Monday accused the government of Bhutan of releasing excess water, leading to the devastating floods in North Bengal and has subsequently called for the neighboring nation to provide compensation for the damages incurred.
“We have long advocated for the establishment of an Indo-Bhutan River Commission that includes representation from our state government. The disaster in North Bengal stemmed from the water released by Bhutan. We urge the Bhutanese government to compensate for the losses,” stated the Chief Minister during her visit to Nagrakata in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal.
She further noted that, due to persistent pressure from the West Bengal government, the Union government has agreed to hold a meeting regarding this matter on October 16, and she would be appointing a representative from the state for attendance.
Criticizing the Central government for its failure to provide financial support during natural disasters like floods, Mamata Banerjee remarked, “We are left to shoulder all costs during such crises, as we receive no assistance from New Delhi.”
The Chief Minister announced that the state government would allocate Rs 1.20 lakh to each household that lost their homes due to the floods and landslides earlier this month.
“We will quickly repair the bridges that were damaged. Landowners whose crops were affected will receive compensation through the agriculture insurance scheme. The state government is committed to ensuring that those impacted will not face any financial hardships,” she added.
Furthermore, she acknowledged the loss of important documents by many individuals due to the floods and landslides, assuring the public that the state government would facilitate the issuance of duplicate documents.
During the occasion, she presented appointment letters for home guards in the state police to a family member from each of the ten families affected by loss of life due to the floods and landslides. She assured that other families impacted would also receive appointment letters in the near future.
In addition, each affected family will receive Rs 5,00,000 in compensation from the state government.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding cross-border water management. While Mamata Banerjee's claims highlight significant grievances, the dialogue between India and Bhutan regarding water resources needs to be constructive and collaborative. The focus should remain on ensuring that affected families receive timely assistance and that future preventive measures are implemented effectively.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mamata Banerjee accuse Bhutan of?
Mamata Banerjee accused Bhutan of releasing excess water that caused severe flooding in North Bengal.
What compensation is being provided to affected families?
Each affected household will receive Rs 1.20 lakh, and additionally, families will get Rs 5,00,000 for the damages incurred.
When is the meeting regarding the flooding issue scheduled?
The meeting convened by the Union government on this issue is scheduled for October 16.
What steps is the West Bengal government taking to assist flood victims?
The state government plans to repair damaged bridges, provide agriculture insurance compensation, and help victims obtain duplicate important documents.
How is the state government addressing the loss of jobs due to the flooding?
The Chief Minister announced that appointment letters for home guard positions will be provided to family members of those who lost their lives in the flooding.
