Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Promises Flood Compensation Within 45 Days

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who returned from the hospital after a six-day stay, convened a high-level meeting with officials on Friday to review ongoing flood relief operations in the state.

Addressing the severe impact of recent floods and heavy rainfall, Mann announced that compensation for affected farmers and residents will be disbursed within 30-45 days.

Speaking at the meeting yesterday, CM Mann emphasized the urgency of relief efforts, stating, “I come from a farming family and understand the pain of losing crops to floods. I won’t rest, nor will I let officials rest, until every affected farmer receives compensation.”

He directed officials to conduct immediate assessments (girdawari) in areas where floodwaters have receded to ensure swift reporting and compensation distribution.

Mann announced that farmers who suffered crop losses will receive Rs 20,000 per acre. A one-week window will be provided after the assessment for residents to verify the accuracy of damage reports, ensuring transparency.

For damaged houses, the state will provide a minimum of Rs 40,000, surpassing the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) guideline of Rs.6,800, with additional state funds allocated.

Compensation for livestock losses, such as cows or buffaloes, will be Rs 37,500, with increased amounts for other animals as per revised norms.

Mann said homes with minor damage will be included in the compensation framework.

The CM reported that 55 deaths have been confirmed due to floods and rains, with families of 42 deceased already receiving financial assistance. He added that officials will visit every affected village within the next 40 to 45 days to assess damage, with cheques to be distributed around Diwali.

Mann praised the resilience of Punjab’s people, noting that communities, social organizations, religious groups, and artists have actively contributed by delivering rations and relief materials to flood-hit areas.

“Punjab has shown the nation how to tackle disasters. We don’t let outsiders go hungry, so how can we let our own suffer?” he remarked.

He also announced plans for medical camps to prevent disease outbreaks, measures to dispose of animal carcasses, and permission for farmers to remove sand from their fields.

Drones are being used to map rivers, and weak embankments are being strengthened to prevent future flooding.

Mann issued a stern warning to officials, stating that anyone found submitting fraudulent claims would face strict action. “As Punjab leader, I feel the pain of my people, but I’m also satisfied knowing I’m not alone. Punjab stands united,” he said.

The CM criticized opposition leaders for politicizing the crisis, specifically targeting BJP state president Sunil Jakhar and Congress leader Ravneet Bittu for their remarks. He dismissed claims blaming him for the floods, saying, “Did I break mountains in Himachal to cause this?”

Mann also responded to Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal’s promise to distribute seeds to one lakh flood-affected people, referencing an ongoing investigation into a previous seed distribution controversy.

Mann reiterated his demand for Central aid, stating he would soon meet the Prime Minister or Home Minister to discuss relief funds. He refuted Jakhar’s claim that the state’s demand for ₹60,000 crore was exaggerated, clarifying discrepancies in reported figures.

Jakhar, in a separate press conference, questioned the state’s financial estimates, alleging inconsistencies in demands ranging from Rs 1,500 crore to Rs 20,000 crore, and accused the state of mismanaging funds.

Mann also addressed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s (SGPC) pledge to release funds, urging them to clarify whether the contributions come from their own resources or the community’s donations.

As Punjab grapples with one of its worst flood crises, CM Mann vowed to work as the state’s “Dukh Mantri” (Minister of Sorrow), pledging to dedicate all resources to support the affected. “The sorrows of Punjab are my own,” he said.