Mamata Banerjee Blames Central Government for West Bengal Flood Crisis

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticizes the BJP-led Central government for neglecting flood-affected areas in the state. She highlights the impact of water release from the Koshi river and ongoing rescue operations. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari, however, blames Banerjee for the crisis. The Chief Minister urges Prime Minister Modi for emergency funds.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central government, accusing them of neglect amidst the state's flood crisis. Speaking to reporters before departing for north Bengal to assess the situation, Banerjee stated, "Nothing has been done, the entire north Bengal is submerged. Everyone makes grand promises during elections and then disappears."

Banerjee noted that 5 lakh cusecs of excess water from the Koshi river, released by Nepal, has severely impacted several districts. Areas in North Bengal, including Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurdwar, are most affected, with an imminent risk of flooding in Malda, Murshidabad, and South Dinajpur.

The Chief Minister detailed the ongoing rescue operations, assuring that all affected individuals have been moved to safety. "Chief Secretary has also been sent to North Bengal. All the people were taken to safe places last night. Rescue and assistance work is ongoing by the police and state administration. I will hold a meeting after reaching there and then will give an update on further information," she said.

Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari, however, blamed Banerjee for the flooding. "Mamata Banerjee is responsible for this... This is TMC's failure. There is no rice in people's homes, no tarpaulin, no food for children. The government has completely failed here," Adhikari stated.

Previously, Banerjee had accused the BJP-led Central government of being the primary cause behind the floods. She noted that water releases from Jharkhand during rains adversely affect the region. Banerjee also pointed out that the Ganga Action Plan and flood control are under central control, but inaction has led to widespread devastation.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Banerjee highlighted the dire aftermath of the floods, affecting five million people, with significant loss of crops, damage to public infrastructure, and destruction of homes and livestock. She urged the Prime Minister for emergency funds to aid recovery efforts and support for flood management.

(With inputs from agencies.)