Is PM Modi Overlooking the Flood Devastation in Punjab?
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Synopsis
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema criticizes PM Modi for neglecting flood devastation while the Punjab BJP focuses on political rallies. Cheema emphasizes the need for federal support and highlights the severe impact of the floods on the state, igniting a call for action.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab Finance Minister condemns PM Modi's inaction on flood relief.
- Pending funds of Rs 60,000 crore remain unaddressed.
- Punjab BJP criticized for focusing on political rallies.
- Severe flooding affects multiple districts, requiring immediate relief efforts.
- Historical context highlights Punjab's resilience in crises.
Chandigarh, Sep 1 (NationPress) Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for neglecting the severe damage inflicted by floods in Punjab, a region that has consistently confronted the nation’s challenges.
He also denounced Union Home Minister Amit Shah for failing to provide any assurance regarding the release of the pending funds amounting to Rs 60,000 crore or a relief package in response to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s recent letter, which requested these overdue funds.
“What is even more regrettable is that instead of advocating for assistance from the Central government, the Punjab BJP is preoccupied with holding political rallies,” Cheema stated during a press conference.
While showcasing a cheque for Rs 50 lakh from the Excise and Taxation Department aimed at supporting the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for flood victims, Cheema emphasized that while the Punjab government, its agencies, and the citizens are collaboratively confronting this natural calamity, the BJP-led Central government is blatantly overlooking the state.
He expressed his disappointment that although the Prime Minister, who readily tweets birthday greetings, has yet to acknowledge the disaster impacting Punjab. Cheema also critiqued Punjab BJP leaders, including state President Sunil Jakhar, working President Ashwani Sharma, and Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu, for focusing on political rallies in Samrala rather than urging their central leadership to take action.
“The leaders of the Punjab BJP should feel ashamed of this behavior,” he remarked. Presenting the letter from Chief Minister Mann to the Prime Minister, Cheema detailed the over Rs 60,000 crore owed to the state from GST compensation and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, among others.
He mentioned that the Chief Minister had also requested amendments to the guidelines for providing support under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to ensure adequate compensation for those affected by the floods. Cheema noted that while the Home Minister did have a phone conversation with the Chief Minister, no guarantees were made regarding the release of the overdue funds or assistance for the flood victims.
Recalling Punjab’s bravery during conflicts in 1962, 1965, 1971, and most recently in 2025, Cheema stressed that the state’s border areas experienced significant assaults during the conflict with Pakistan, yet the Punjabis responded with unwavering valor. He expressed his discontent that the Union government “now seems to be ignoring Punjab’s plight.” He highlighted that the floods, which are the worst in nearly four decades, have devastated significant regions of the state, including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Kapurthala, and Jalandhar.
The Punjab cabinet, according to Minister Cheema, is diligently working to provide relief and rehabilitation. In response to questions from the media, he confirmed that 29 individuals have lost their lives and that Deputy Commissioners are evaluating the damage. However, he emphasized that the immediate focus must remain on delivering relief supplies and continuing rescue operations. –IANS
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the challenges faced by the state and the need for prompt federal assistance. The situation calls for collaboration beyond politics to ensure that the affected communities receive the support they urgently require. As the nation watches, the response from the central leadership will be pivotal in determining the resilience of Punjab.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation regarding the floods in Punjab?
Punjab is facing severe floods, described as the worst in nearly four decades, with significant damage reported across various districts. The state government is actively working on relief and rehabilitation efforts.
How much funding is Punjab requesting from the central government?
Punjab is seeking the release of pending funds amounting to Rs 60,000 crore, which includes GST compensation and other financial aid.
What has the Punjab government done in response to the floods?
The Punjab government, led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, is providing relief materials and assessing the damage caused by the floods, with a focus on immediate rescue operations.
Why is there criticism towards PM Modi and the Punjab BJP?
Critics argue that PM Modi has not addressed the flood crisis adequately, while the Punjab BJP is accused of prioritizing political rallies over urgent assistance for flood victims.
What historical context does Punjab have regarding national crises?
Punjab has a history of bravery during national conflicts and has faced numerous challenges, which makes the current lack of support from the central government particularly disheartening for its leaders.
