What Measures has Mamata Banerjee Taken for North Bengal Disaster Victims?
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Synopsis
In response to the devastating landslides and heavy rainfall that resulted in 23 fatalities in North Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced significant compensation and job offers for the victims' families. This decision aims to provide financial stability and support to those affected during this tragic time.
Key Takeaways
- 23 lives lost due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
- Compensation of Rs 5,00,000 announced for victims' families.
- Job offers in state police for one family member.
- Blame game between state government and neighboring Bhutan.
- Call for improved disaster management strategies.
Kolkata, Oct 6 (NationPress) In the midst of a tragic crisis that has claimed 23 lives by Monday morning in the hilly terrains, Terai, and Dooars regions of North Bengal due to severe rainfall and landslides, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared financial aid and job opportunities for the families of the deceased.
Before embarking on a trip to North Bengal on Monday afternoon to assess the affected regions, the Chief Minister announced that each victim's family would receive a one-time compensation of Rs 5,00,000.
Furthermore, she stated that the government would offer a position as a home-guard in the state police to one member of each affected family.
“I recognize that no amount of money can replace lost lives. However, the state government has a social duty. Hence, this provision of compensation and job opportunities is a commitment from the state government to ensure that the victims' families can sustain themselves without relying on others,” she commented.
During her address, the Chief Minister remarked that the situation in North Bengal deteriorated due to water being released from neighboring Bhutan, labeling the flooding as a “man-made” disaster.
She explained that while the water from the dams of the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) contributed to the flood in South Bengal, similar actions in Bhutan triggered the crisis in North Bengal.
The Opposition Leader in the Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, mocked the Chief Minister, asserting that her typical blame-shifting continues even post-disaster in North Bengal.
“While she blames the DVC for the South Bengal situation, she points fingers at Bhutan for the crisis in North Bengal. The Chief Minister seems oblivious to the priorities of the state government, frequently engaging in blame games. Sometimes her target is DVC, and at other times it’s Bhutan,” the Opposition Leader stated.
Point of View
It is crucial to underscore that while the tragic loss of life in North Bengal is deeply concerning, the political responses to such crises often focus on blame rather than proactive measures. The need for comprehensive disaster management and infrastructure development is paramount to prevent such incidents in the future. Our commitment is to highlight these issues responsibly and ensure that the voices of the affected are heard.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What compensation is being offered to the victims' families?
Each victim's family will receive a one-time compensation of Rs 5,00,000.
Will the state provide jobs to the victims' families?
Yes, one member from each victim's family will be offered a home-guard position in the state police.
What caused the flooding in North Bengal?
The flooding has been attributed to the release of water from dams in Bhutan, which the Chief Minister has labeled a man-made disaster.
How has the opposition reacted?
Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari has criticized the Chief Minister for her blame-shifting tactics.
How many lives were lost in this tragedy?
As of Monday morning, 23 lives have been officially reported lost in the disaster.
