Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday affirmed his solidarity with the flood-stricken people of Assam during a visit to a relief camp in Fulertal, Cachar district on Monday.
He declared himself their advocate in Parliament, urging the central government to swiftly provide comprehensive support to the state.
"I stand with the people of Assam, I am their soldier in Parliament, and I urge the central government to extend all possible help and support to the state expeditiously," Gandhi posted on 'X', following his assessment of the flood's impact.
Expressing deep concern over the widespread devastation caused by the floods, Gandhi stressed the immediate need for a "comprehensive and compassionate vision" encompassing short-term relief, rehabilitation, and compensation.
He also called for the establishment of a pan-Northeast water management authority to address long-term flood control measures.
"The extreme devastation caused by flooding in Assam is heartbreaking — with innocent children like 8-year-old Avinash being taken away from us. My heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families across the state," Gandhi stated, reflecting on the tragic incident in Guwahati.
During his visit, Assam Congress leaders briefed Gandhi on the ground situation, highlighting that over 24 lakh people have been affected, with more than 53,000 displaced and over 60 casualties reported.
"These numbers underscore the severe mismanagement by the BJP's double engine government, which promised a flood-free Assam," Gandhi criticised.
In addition to assessing flood relief efforts, Gandhi visited a camp in Thalain where internally displaced people from Manipur were taking shelter following recent violence.
Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhupen Borah and other senior leaders welcomed Gandhi at Kumbhirgram airport, where Borah submitted a memorandum seeking special central assistance for Assam's flood relief and reconstruction efforts.
"We urge Rahul Gandhi to convey our plight to the Centre and secure adequate relief and compensation," Borah stated, criticizing the BJP government for insufficient support during the crisis.
Borah also highlighted the long-standing issues contributing to Assam's recurring floods, attributing part of the problem to deforestation in the hills leading to riverbed siltation and reduced river carrying capacities.
He emphasised the necessity of a pan-Northeast water management authority empowered to implement comprehensive flood control measures.
"The BJP government has failed to adequately fund flood-related repair and reconstruction efforts in Assam, despite repeated appeals," Borah alleged, noting a significant disparity between the funds requested and those received from the Centre.
Meanwhile, Congress leaders, MPs, MLAs, and party organizations have been actively engaged in assisting flood-affected communities, providing immediate relief and support.
Gandhi concluded his visit to Assam by reaffirming his commitment to highlighting the state's plight at the national level and advocating for substantial assistance from the central government.
He departed from Silchar airport for Jiribam, continuing his tour with a scheduled visit to Imphal, Manipur.
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