Northeast Desk, 9th July: A contentious exchange erupted between BJP leader Pijush Hazarika and the Congress over Rahul Gandhi’s recent visit to flood relief camps in Assam. Hazarika took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to dispute Gandhi’s presence in any flood-affected areas on that day.
“I wish to clarify that Mr Rahul Gandhi has not visited any flood relief camp or any flood-affected areas in Assam today. Members of the media are requested to kindly verify WhatsApp forwards, social media information/propaganda before posting,” Hazarika stated.
However, contrary to Hazarika’s claims, Rahul Gandhi did visit a flood relief camp at Fulertal in Cachar district on July 8. During his visit, Gandhi expressed solidarity with the flood-affected people and emphasized his commitment to their welfare as their representative in Parliament. He called upon the central government to provide swift and comprehensive assistance to the flood-ravaged state.
Highlighting the severe impact of the floods, Gandhi stressed the need for a “comprehensive and compassionate vision” that includes relief, rehabilitation, and compensation. He also advocated for the establishment of a pan-Northeast water management authority to address long-term flood control measures. Additionally, Gandhi extended heartfelt condolences to the family of 8-year-old Avinash, who tragically lost his life in a drain accident in Guwahati.
Congress Hits Back
In response to Hazarika’s comments, the Congress party issued a sharp rebuttal and sought clarification on several points:
- Failed Embankments: “Why couldn’t more than 50 embankments hold up? Are you ready to take responsibility for this fiasco?”
- Central Government Funding: “Why, during the last five years, has the Central Government provided a meager Rs 250 crores against a requirement of more than Rs 10,000 crores? Is the state government incompetent?”
- Amit Shah’s Comments: “Why did Amit Shah call this grave situation a ‘flood-like situation’? Was he serious when he suggested digging ponds to control floods?”
- PM Modi’s Indifference: “Why is PM Narendra Modi so indifferent about Assam, Manipur, and the Northeast as a whole? He has time to meet the cricket team but doesn’t have time to visit Assam and Manipur.”
- ‘Double Engine’ Government: “What has the ‘Double Engine’ government done so far to fix the perennial flood issue?”
The Congress accused the BJP of doing “absolutely nothing” to address the flood issue in Assam, highlighting the state’s struggle with severe floods affecting millions. The disaster has underscored the need for substantial support from the central government and brought to light long-standing issues regarding flood management infrastructure.
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