Why is Rahul Gandhi Urging the Government to Speed Up Relief for Rain-Affected Marathwada?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rains in Marathwada have resulted in significant destruction.
- Rahul Gandhi has called for urgent government action.
- Vijay Wadettiwar is leading financial support efforts for farmers.
- The Maharashtra government has announced financial aid for affected farmers.
- Political unity is crucial in addressing the crisis.
New Delhi, Sep 25 (NationPress) As relentless rains continue to batter Marathwada in Maharashtra, resulting in tragic loss of lives, livestock, and significant crop damage, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the impacted families on Thursday and called on the government to accelerate relief efforts.
Using the platform X, Rahul Gandhi stated, “The reports of lives lost and severe crop destruction due to the heavy rains in Marathwada, Maharashtra, are profoundly distressing. My thoughts are with all the families affected during this challenging period.”
He further requested the “government and administration to hasten relief operations and, upon evaluating the crop devastation, offer comprehensive support to farmers.”
The Leader of Opposition also encouraged Congress leaders and members to collaborate with the Maharashtra administration and extend all necessary aid to those in distress.
Notably, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar announced his intention to donate six months' worth of his income to assist troubled farmers.
In light of the ruling MahaYuti leaders, including BJP's Ravindra Chavan and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, pledging one month's salary to help rain-affected farmers, Congress leaders are stepping up with larger commitments.
Wadettiwar emphasized the widespread nature of the crop damage, stating that “one month's salary will not suffice, and donations should reflect at least six months’ income.”
He highlighted the considerable hardships farmers are facing due to the recent rainfall, urging everyone to contribute as much as possible to alleviate their suffering.
After the flooding and rains, many crops have been affected by the yellow mosaic virus, further compounding the farmers' challenges, as reported by the Congress leader to the media.
He also insisted that the Agriculture Minister conduct a detailed survey of the crop losses and declare Rs 50,000 per hectare as compensation.
If the Maharashtra government fails to assist, Wadettiwar warned that it would bear responsibility for the plight of farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada.
On Wednesday, he criticized the government's meager assistance, labeling it a “cruel joke.”
Congress and NCP-SP have called on the government to declare a “wet drought” in the state.
Importantly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that the government has approved Rs 2,215 crore in financial aid for 31.64 lakh farmers, with Rs 1,829 crore already allocated at the district level, set to be transferred to farmers' bank accounts within the next 8 to 10 days.