Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Tuesday strongly criticized PM Narendra Modi’s flood relief package for Punjab, describing it as a “cruel joke” on the people devastated by the recent floods.
Cheema slammed the Centre for offering what he called a meagre and insulting package of ₹1,600 crore following the PM’s aerial survey of the state.
In a press statement, Cheema said that the assistance of ₹1,600 crore is grossly inadequate given the worst floods in four decades, which have caused damages worth tens of thousands of crores to farmers, labourers, small businesses, and public infrastructure. He alleged that the Prime Minister’s visit was merely a “photo-op” and that the relief amount is nothing but a pittance.
The Finance Minister highlighted the plight of poor families who lost their homes, with many left homeless under the open sky, and labourers who have lost all means of income. He noted the extensive destruction of crops, houses, and public assets. Cheema reminded that the Punjab Government has already announced ₹20,000 per acre compensation for farmers and ₹4 lakh for families of those who lost their lives.
He stressed that while the state government is doing everything possible, the magnitude of the calamity requires significant and urgent Central assistance. Calling the relief announcement a “grave injustice,” Cheema accused the Union government of showing apathy towards Punjab.
Reiterating Punjab’s demand for the release of over ₹60,000 crore in pending funds, including GST compensation, he said that the Prime Minister has not even responded to CM Bhagwant Mann’s request letter. Instead, he accused the Centre of politicizing a humanitarian disaster.
Cheema urged the Central government to immediately review the situation and announce a comprehensive and adequate financial package for Punjab’s recovery. He concluded by reminding that the people of Punjab have always stood with the nation in times of crisis, and now expect the Union government to stand with them in their hour of need.