BJP Leader Blames Punjab Government for Flood Crisis and Illegal Mining
Ludhiana, September 6 — Tarun Chugh, a top BJP leader, has openly blamed the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab for failing to take timely action to prevent the ongoing floods. He also criticized the government for risking the state’s safety by playing politics over the Bhakra waters and neglecting important flood protection measures.
During his visit to Sasrali village in Ludhiana district, Chugh expressed disappointment over the delay in acting against the illegal mining mafia. He accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led government of colluding with the mining criminals, calling for a thorough investigation by the CBI.
Chugh pointed out that if Punjab had followed advice from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) earlier, the current flood disaster could have been avoided or reduced. He also visited villagers, NDRF teams, and Indian Army personnel working tirelessly to protect the Dhussi bundh — a crucial flood barrier. To honor their efforts, he offered ‘ardas’ (prayers) for the safety of everyone in Punjab.
The BJP leader blamed illegal mining for the worsening flood situation, calling it a “man-made tragedy.” He said unchecked sand mining, which was protected by the state government, had led to the current devastation. Today, over 4 lakh acres of farmland are submerged, and nearly 1,800 villages across all 23 districts are struggling with floods.
Villagers in Sasrali had raised complaints months ago about illegal mining and flood risks, but Chugh said the government remained silent instead of taking action.
He also highlighted the importance of the Dhussi bundh, a flood protection project initiated during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and then-Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal. Chugh questioned where the Rs 200 crore spent on repairing and maintaining the bundh had gone, demanding answers from the AAP government.
On the national level, Chugh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support, noting that Rs 11,000 crore has already been released to funds like the NDRF. He highlighted the heroic work of the Indian Army and NDRF teams, who have saved over 15,000 lives, including a mother and her newborn, despite the flood crisis. Meanwhile, he criticized the Punjab government for being absent and wasting taxpayers’ money instead of focusing on relief efforts.
Regarding Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s health, Chugh wished him a quick recovery, hoping he returns soon to lead the state and ensure timely compensation for those affected by the disaster.
This situation has brought attention to the serious flood risks caused by illegal activities and government negligence in Punjab. People are hoping for stronger action and better disaster management in the coming days.
