Chandigarh-Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar visited the flood-affected Ajnala Assembly constituency today and met with the affected people to listen to their problems. Amritsar Rural President Amarpal Singh Boni Ajnala accompanied him. During the visit, Jakhar accused the Punjab government of failing to provide relief and assistance to flood-affected areas, holding it directly responsible for the massive losses in Punjab’s border regions. He clarified that his visit was not for political purposes but to remind the government of its responsibilities and to support the flood victims.
Jakhar stated, “The BJP has postponed its facilitation camps due to the severity of the floods, as we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Punjab’s flood-affected people in this hour of grief.” Addressing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in strong words, he said, “Do not forget Punjab. This disaster is a result of the Punjab government’s failure. People in flood-affected areas are neither getting rations, nor fuel for draining water, nor any government assistance. The government is only indulging in publicity.”
He further noted that social organizations, religious groups, and ordinary Punjabis have stepped forward to help the flood victims, while the government has proven entirely ineffective. Warning the Chief Minister, Jakhar said, “Take up your responsibility; you will be held accountable later.”
Central Government’s Aid and Punjab Government’s Failure
Jakhar revealed that the Central Government has released ₹229 crore out of the allocated ₹611 crore for disaster management in Punjab, but the state government has failed to utilize these funds effectively. He questioned, “Where has this money been spent? The government neither made arrangements nor held preparatory meetings.” Meanwhile, the people of Punjab have suffered massive losses.
Jakhar also blamed uncontrolled mining in border areas for the devastation. He said, “Due to mining, embankments broke, causing significant damage in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Ajnala constituencies.” He emphasized that the failure to clean nullahs (drainage channels) from Pathankot to Fazilka worsened the flood situation.
Central Government and Haryana Ready to Help
Jakhar assured that the Central Government stands with Punjab’s people, as Punjab is an integral part of the country. He suggested that the Chief Minister could seek any assistance from the Centre, as its doors are always open. Additionally, he revealed that the Haryana government is ready to provide help, but the Punjab government is hesitant to accept it.
Jakhar announced that, as BJP state president, he would write to the Prime Minister to request additional assistance for Punjab’s flood-affected people. He said, “Today, the poor and farmers need the government’s support the most. Chief Minister Mann, there is still time—step up and take care of the people, or the losses could escalate.”
Losses to Farmers and the Poor
Jakhar highlighted that the floods have completely destroyed the paddy crop, and wheat sowing will also be impossible, causing significant economic losses for farmers. He stressed that the government must recognize its responsibility and provide immediate assistance to the affected. He remarked, “Providing helicopters won’t feed people or help them. There is a need to deliver relief materials and arrange for rehabilitation.”
In conclusion, Sunil Jakhar urged the Punjab government to immediately start relief and rehabilitation efforts in the flood-affected areas. He said, “I am ready to go wherever needed. The BJP is fully committed to helping the people of Punjab.”