RMPI protests govt's negligence in handling flood crisis

The Revolutionary Marxist Party of India (RMPI), Jalandhar-Kapurthala unit, held a protest and submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Jalandhar today, demanding justice and adequate compensation for flood-affected residents across Punjab. The memorandum, addressed to the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, was handed over to Adviser to the Chief Minister, Navdeep Singh, following a gathering at Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall.

The protest was presided over by district president Darshan Nahar. Addressing the gathering, RMPI national general secretary Mangat Ram Pasla criticized both the Centre and the Punjab Government for their alleged negligence in handling the flood crisis. “The floods are less a natural disaster and more a result of human negligence,” Pasla said. “History will not forgive the way the authorities have treated the people.”

Pasla condemned the Centre for announcing only a meager relief package and accused the Punjab Government of failing to establish a dedicated disaster relief fund. He also criticized the creation of a separate fund modeled after the PM CARES Fund, claiming it lacked transparency and accountability.

Highlighting the devastation caused by the floods, Pasla said, “People have lost their homes, lives, and livestock, yet no one is willing to take responsibility.” He also pointed out the government's silence on the role of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and the lack of flood preparedness.

On the issue of migrant workers, Pasla emphasized that while offenders must be punished, entire communities should not be targeted or expelled under the pretext of isolated incidents. He warned against divisive tactics allegedly being used by certain agencies.

District secretary Jaswinder Singh Dhesi added that while help has poured in from across Punjab, other states, and even abroad, the government appears to be shirking its responsibilities.

Other leaders who addressed the gathering included Shahkot secretary Nirmal Malsia, Jalandhar president Ram Kishan, secretary Baldev Singh Nurpuri, treasurer Hari Muni Singh, Nakodar secretary Dalwinder Singh, and Kapurthala secretary Harbans Mattu.

Following the speeches, a convoy of RMPI members marched to the DC office to submit the memorandum.