Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Member of Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal raised a critical alarm in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, detailing the severe flood devastation in Punjab. She attributed the crisis to an excessive flow of water in the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, which has impacted the lives and livelihoods across more than 2,300 villages in the state.
Farmers' Fields Buried Under Sand and Silt
The MP expressed profound concern for the farming community, which forms the backbone of Punjab's economy. She stated that the floodwaters have left behind massive deposits of sand and silt on agricultural land. This damage is so extensive that the affected fields have been rendered almost unfit for cultivation for the next two cropping seasons. This poses a long-term threat to food security and the economic survival of countless farmers.
Political Tussle Over Relief Funds Intensifies Suffering
Harsimrat Kaur Badal pinpointed a major bureaucratic and political hurdle delaying relief for the victims. She highlighted the ongoing dispute between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government over the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) compensation.
While the central government claims it has allocated Rs 12,500 crore to Punjab under the SDRF, the state administration denies receiving these funds. The state government also contests receiving any aid from a separate Rs 1,600 crore relief package announced by the Centre. This conflicting claims scenario has created a deadlock, leaving flood-affected people in limbo without timely financial assistance.
A Direct Solution to Ensure Aid Reaches Victims
Tired of seeing sufferers caught in a crossfire of claims, the SAD MP proposed a clear and transparent solution. She urged that to bypass the administrative impasse, the compensation should be credited directly into the bank accounts of the aggrieved persons. This method, she argued, would ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive the crucial support without delay, irrespective of the political disagreement between the two governments.
The situation underscores a critical need for coordinated disaster management and a victim-centric approach in releasing relief funds. As thousands in Punjab grapple with the aftermath of the floods, the call for direct benefit transfers grows louder to prevent further humanitarian distress.
