Agartala: Sept 21: The people of Tripura were severely affected by the floods in August, a disaster of unprecedented scale for the state. The Congress had demanded that the central government declare it a national disaster. However, not only was this request denied, but even a month after the floods, the central government has not provided any additional financial assistance to Tripura.
Pradesh Congress President Ashish Kumar Saha highlighted that the 40 crore rupees allocated by the central government shortly after the floods is an annual provision for disaster management, not additional aid. He criticized the central government’s lack of further support, suggesting it reflects their attitude towards Tripura.
During a press conference at the Pradesh Congress Bhavan on Saturday, Saha noted that despite the Chief Minister’s announcement of a relief package during the last assembly session, farmers, horticulturists, laborers, and fishermen have not received any assistance. He also alleged that aid distribution is being influenced by political affiliations and that the rural economy has been significantly impacted by the floods. Saha criticized the imposition of hefty fees under the Vidya Jyoti project and the increase in electricity tariffs during this crisis.
The Congress is urging the central government to announce a comprehensive relief package for the affected people. Saha warned that if this demand is not met, the Congress will have no option but to protest.
Regarding the request for Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman to vacate his residence, Saha suggested it might be a retaliatory move by the BJP government, as Sudip Roy Barman had raised various issues during the last assembly session. The Congress has expressed strong opposition to this order. Other Pradesh Congress leaders were also present at the press conference.
