Is the Bengal Government Misusing Central Flood Relief Funds?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, claims West Bengal's government is misusing central flood relief funds. This comes at a critical time as the state struggles with the aftermath of devastating floods. What does this mean for accountability and transparency in governance?
Key Takeaways
- Suvendu Adhikari raises concerns over fund misappropriation.
- Allegations involve Rs 983 crore from the Union government.
- Funds are reportedly redirected to the Banglar Bari housing scheme.
- Call for a special audit by the CAG.
- Serious implications for governance and accountability.
Kolkata, Nov 10 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, accused the state administration on Monday of misappropriating funds disbursed by the Union government through the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for unrelated expenses.
In a press conference, the BJP leader asserted that this financial year alone, the Union government allocated Rs 983 crore under the SDRF.
“Over the past five fiscal years, the total disbursement from the Union government under SDRF reached Rs 4,470 crore. However, a significant portion of these funds has been redirected to the state’s Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Department to support the state’s housing initiative, Banglar Bari. This action is unlawful. Funds from the Union government must not be repurposed for different uses,” Adhikari asserted.
He further alleged that the state Chief Secretary, Manoj Pant, approved the paperwork concerning this SDRF fund redirection, fully aware that such actions are prohibited.
The Leader of the Opposition indicated that this fund diversion for the Banglar Bari project was necessitated by significant discrepancies in West Bengal concerning the allocation of funds released by the Union government under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
During the press conference, Adhikari also called for a comprehensive audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) regarding this matter.
Coincidentally, these serious allegations were brought forward as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee embarked on a three-day tour to North Bengal to assess the aftermath of the severe flooding and landslides last month that resulted in numerous fatalities.
Previously, the Chief Minister had accused the Union government of failing to provide flood relief funds, claiming that the state was shouldering the burden of flood relief expenditures from its own budget.
Point of View
It is imperative to view these allegations with a balanced perspective. While Suvendu Adhikari's claims highlight potential mismanagement, it is crucial to await a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts. Accountability in governance is vital, especially during crises. The public deserves transparency regarding the utilization of disaster relief funds.
NationPress
11/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations made by Suvendu Adhikari?
Suvendu Adhikari alleges that the West Bengal government is diverting funds from the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for unrelated projects, specifically for the Banglar Bari housing scheme.
How much money has the Union government released under SDRF?
The Union government has released Rs 983 crore under SDRF for the current financial year.
What does the state government claim regarding flood relief funds?
The state government claims that it has been bearing flood relief expenses from its own budget due to the Union government's delay in releasing funds.
Who is responsible for approving the fund diversion?
According to Adhikari, the state Chief Secretary, Manoj Pant, has cleared the files for the fund diversion knowing it is not allowed.
What is the Banglar Bari scheme?
The Banglar Bari scheme is a housing initiative by the West Bengal government aimed at providing housing to the rural population.
