Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched a scathing attack on both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiromani Akali Dal while announcing a major compensation package for flood-affected families in Dera Baba Nanak on Wednesday.
Political Condemnation Over Martyrdom Day Absence
The Chief Minister strongly criticized the BJP for its failure to participate in the martyrdom day events at Anandpur Sahib, describing it as a shocking display of insensitivity toward Punjab's spiritual traditions. Mann emphasized that senior BJP leaders' absence from the important religious event exposed their disregard for the state's spiritual ethos and supreme martyrdom traditions.
In his address, Mann didn't spare the Shiromani Akali Dal either, accusing the party of engaging in narrow, family-centric politics that has consistently undermined Punjab's spiritual and moral legacy. He specifically reminded the public that during the Tarn Taran byelection, the Akali Dal had fielded a relative of an alleged gangster, which he said demonstrated their questionable political priorities.
Comprehensive Flood Relief Package Announced
Shifting focus to governance, the Chief Minister detailed his government's response to the recent floods that devastated parts of Punjab. More than 30,000 families whose houses were damaged during the floods will receive compensation, with the state government initiating the disbursement process immediately.
Mann announced that the state government has begun distributing enhanced compensation at Rs 20,000 per acre for crop losses suffered by farmers during the floods, claiming this is the highest compensation rate provided by any government in the country.
The comprehensive rehabilitation package for house damage includes:
- Rs 1.20 lakh for each fully damaged house
- Rs 70,000 already released as first installment to eligible beneficiaries
- Remaining amount to be disbursed in two additional installments
- 90 days of wage employment under MGNREGA for rebuilding houses
District-Wise Impact and National Contribution
The Chief Minister revealed that of the nearly 30,000 houses reported damaged across Punjab, 8,056 were in Gurdaspur district alone. Compensation amounting to Rs 377 crore was being distributed on Wednesday to ensure affected families could rebuild their homes with dignity.
Despite the widespread destruction caused by the floods, Mann proudly noted that Punjab contributed nearly 150 lakh tonnes of paddy to the national pool, once again fulfilling its responsibility as the food bowl of the country.
The Chief Minister pointed out that the state suffered losses worth over Rs 13,500 crore due to the floods and reiterated his strong demand that the Union government immediately release the Rs 1,600 crore relief package that was announced earlier.
Mann appreciated the tireless efforts of social and religious organizations and volunteers from Punjab and across the country for their selfless service during the recent flash floods, praising the indomitable spirit of Punjabis in overcoming adversity.
