Congress MP from Jorhat, Gaurav Gogoi on Monday came down heavily on Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his recent remarks describing Assam's devastating floods as a "flood-like situation."
Gogoi pointed out the severity of the crisis, which has claimed 58 lives as of July 7, accusing Shah of displaying ignorance and insincerity in his assessment.
In a sharp rebuke on social media, Gogoi stated, "Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah's statement on the tragedy in Assam reflects a lack of understanding and seriousness. Despite over 70 fatalities, the Minister chooses to downplay this disaster as merely a 'flood-like situation.'"
Shah, speaking on Saturday, acknowledged the flood situation in Assam due to heavy rains and discussed ongoing relief efforts with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
He highlighted the deployment of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams working tirelessly for rescue and relief operations.
Gogoi also drew attention to the critical issue of severe soil erosion in Majuli, underscoring the compounded challenges faced by Assam due to both floods and erosion.
"Erosion poses significant long-term risks compared to floods. It disproportionately affects the poor, particularly women and children, amidst the broader impacts of climate change," he remarked.
Expressing sorrow over the tragic death of an eight-year-old boy swept away in an overflooded drain in Guwahati, Gogoi lamented the neglect faced by ordinary Indians despite paying taxes.
"The recent floods in Assam have seen some of the most heart-wrenching losses. The incident involving the young boy underscores the urgent need for better disaster management and support mechanisms," he highlighted.
As of Sunday, the flood situation in Assam remains dire, affecting nearly 24 lakh people according to official reports.
Gogoi urged for substantial investments in flood and erosion management, calling for collaborative efforts from international bodies, local communities, and all levels of government to address Assam's recurring environmental challenges.
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