Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Assam Government Over Flood Mismanagement

New Delhi, July 8: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized the Assam government for its handling of the severe flood situation in the state. He described the situation as a result of ‘gross and grave mismanagement’ by the BJP’s double-engine government, which had promised a ‘flood-free Assam.’

Gandhi expressed his condolences to the families affected by the floods, mentioning the tragic loss of an 8-year-old child named Avinash. He highlighted the alarming statistics: over 60 deaths, more than 53,000 displaced, and 24 lakh people affected.

He called for a comprehensive and compassionate vision for Assam, including proper relief, rehabilitation, and compensation in the short term, and the establishment of a pan-Northeast water management authority for long-term flood control.

Gandhi also urged the central government to provide all possible help and support to Assam. Meanwhile, the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), led by President Bhupen Borah, submitted a memorandum to Gandhi, urging him to address the flood issue in Parliament.

The APCC letter pointed out that deforestation in the hills and siltation in rivers are major causes of the floods. It called for strengthening current flood management infrastructure and providing immediate relief to those affected.

As of now, 58 people have died, and 53,429 are seeking refuge in shelter camps. The floods have affected 23.9 lakh people across 3,535 villages and submerged 68,769 hectares of crop area. Additionally, 114 animals, including 6 rhinos, have died in Kaziranga National Park.