The state of Punjab is facing the aftermath of devastating floods that have caused widespread displacement, crop destruction, and industrial setbacks. In this challenging situation, the expectation was that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would provide substantial aid. However, during his visit to Gurdaspur, the Prime Minister announced a relief package of only ₹1,600 crores, which generated significant criticism. Furthermore, Modi’s comment, “Don’t you understand Hindi?” was widely perceived as a slight against the Punjabi language and the people of Punjab, adding to the disappointment.
Disaster Management Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian expressed his concern about the insufficient relief amount, to which the Prime Minister responded dismissively. This exchange was interpreted as the central government making light of the serious crisis. Aman Arora, the AAP’s Punjab State President, strongly condemned the aid package as inadequate, especially considering that the damage is estimated to be worth over ₹20,000 crores. Arora also demanded the release of ₹60,000 crore in funds that the Centre is alleged to have withheld. He viewed the Prime Minister’s visit as a series of photo opportunities and political maneuvers.
The relief package was described as a “big joke” by Water Resources Minister Barinder Goyal. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the belated announcement and characterized the aid as insufficient. Even Ravneet Bittu, a leader from the BJP, acknowledged that Modi’s comment regarding the Punjabi language was inappropriate. Despite the clarification attempts, the remark was seen as an insult to the people of Punjab. The AAP government is urging the central government to provide substantial financial assistance to cover the losses and immediately release the funds owed to Punjab. The AAP government has pledged to support the flood-affected population and stands with the people of Punjab during this difficult time.