Mumbai, Sep 30 (NationPress) Describing the devastation from heavy rains and flooding in Marathwada and across Maharashtra as “unprecedented”, the Shiv Sena(UBT) urged the MahaYuti government on Tuesday to promptly announce a full crop loan waiver, as was committed before the Assembly elections, to offer essential support to farmers impacted by this calamity.

In its publication, 'Saamana', the Thackeray faction asserted that it is not engaging in politics during this dire time and called on the ruling coalition to do the same.

It emphasized that there should be no political maneuvering in the allocation of governmental aid, advocating for the establishment of all-party committees at the district and taluka levels to ensure proper distribution of assistance.

Forming committees composed of prominent figures from major political parties within the state would be beneficial, allowing cooperation with District Collectors and Divisional Commissioners.

The Thackeray camp noted the severe impact of the torrential rains and floods, urging the government to open its treasury to provide financial support to farmers and other citizens whose lives have been devastated.

Some members of the ruling coalition raised objections, questioning what Uddhav Thackeray accomplished for farmers during his tenure as Chief Minister. They stated, “It appears some alliance leaders have forgotten that Uddhav Thackeray waived off the loans of farmers in Maharashtra during his first cabinet meeting.”

“We believe that natural disasters should be devoid of political agendas. However, some members of the ruling alliance seem preoccupied with politics. Additionally, certain politicians are making hollow promises while neglecting real assistance for flood victims. It is absurd that government members question the opposition's aid to flood victims,” the Saamana editorial remarked. It highlighted that opposition party workers are actively visiting affected areas to assist in any way they can.

Following the floods in Marathwada, the chief minister visited the affected villages to assess the situation. When a distressed farmer inquired about compensation per hectare, the Chief Minister reportedly lost his temper, responding, 'Don't do politics.' The Thackeray camp questioned, “What kind of politics is at play when a flood-stricken farmer asks for compensation?” They argued that even the expression of grief and injustice has been overshadowed.

According to the editorial, over one crore farmers have been impacted by these floods, with farms, homes, and livestock destroyed, leading to loss of lives. In this critical time, it is imperative to assist farmers rather than engage in political disputes.

“Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed the District Collectors of regions like Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Beed, and others to expedite relief and rescue operations for the affected population. The CM has also directed the administration to be proactive in their inspections and aid efforts. If adhered to, this could ensure help reaches the flood-affected farmers,” the editorial stated.

The Thackeray camp commended the Chief Minister's initiative in overseeing flood relief efforts, noting that progress often requires the involvement of the government’s head. “Today, farmers are left without food supplies or shelter. Thus, the Chief Minister has mandated that proper provisions for food, water, and health be maintained in relief camps. However, who will monitor the adherence to these directives?” they queried, reiterating the need for all-party committees to collaborate with the administration.

Maharashtra belongs to everyone, but it is unethical for those in power to exploit government relief efforts for political gain. Some districts are experiencing a shortage of fodder due to the floods. The Chief Minister has ordered District Collectors to provide fodder. The heavy rainfall has led to dam water being released, exacerbating flooding in villages. Consequently, the Chief Minister declared that residents would be relocated to safer areas. Opposition parties have also offered suggestions to the government and administration, advocating for a thorough assessment of damages and ensuring that enforcement of laws does not complicate recovery efforts,” the editorial suggested.

As per the editorial, the Chief Minister has instructed officials to complete damage assessments and report back to the government. “The CM has allocated Rs 2,000 crore for flood victims in Marathwada, with Rs 10,000 designated for those whose homes were inundated.” However, it stressed that aid distribution should not be branded with the ‘lotus’ (BJP symbol). The editorial concluded with a call for the government’s directives to reach every flood victim effectively.