Opposition Criticizes Mamata Banerjee: In the aftermath of devastating floods and landslides that struck North Bengal, opposition parties have sharply criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly prioritizing the Durga Puja carnival over immediate relief efforts for the affected regions. The calamity, which led to widespread destruction in districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong, has intensified political debates over the state’s disaster management and response strategies.
Opposition Criticizes Mamata Banerjee: The Disaster in North Bengal
On October 5, 2025, heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and landslides across North Bengal, causing significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and agricultural lands. The affected areas witnessed the collapse of roads and bridges, making rescue and relief operations challenging. The situation was further exacerbated by the disruption of essential services, including electricity and communication networks, leaving residents in dire conditions.
Opposition’s Critique of the Chief Minister
Opposition leaders have expressed strong disapproval of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s actions during the crisis. They allege that her participation in the Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata, held on October 5, diverted attention and resources from the urgent relief operations needed in the flood-hit regions.
Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, remarked, “While people in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong were grappling with relentless rain and landslides, the state government remained apathetic. Instead of focusing on relief, the Chief Minister chose to participate in the carnival, dancing with film artistes.”
The Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPI(M), has also raised concerns about the state’s preparedness and response. Md Salim, the state secretary, criticized the government’s negligence in maintaining the aging infrastructure in the hilly terrains of North Bengal. He stated, “The removal of stones from hills and riverbeds has intensified flooding and landslides. This unchecked exploitation of natural resources has directly contributed to the collapse of infrastructure.”
Government’s Defense
In response to the criticism, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee defended her actions, stating that her participation in the carnival was a long-standing commitment. She emphasized that her government had been actively involved in rescue and relief operations and that her presence at the event did not hinder the ongoing efforts.
The Chief Minister further clarified that her visit to the affected regions was delayed due to logistical challenges and the need to mobilize resources effectively. She assured that relief materials were being dispatched and that work on repairing damaged roads and bridges had commenced.
Environmental Concerns and Infrastructure Issues
Environmentalists and experts have highlighted the role of ecological degradation in exacerbating the disaster. Deforestation, unregulated quarrying, and construction activities have weakened the natural barriers, making the region more susceptible to landslides and floods. The lack of proper drainage systems and the encroachment of water bodies have further aggravated the situation.
Md Salim pointed out that the simultaneous construction of dams, tunnels, and wider roads, coupled with large-scale felling of trees, has disturbed the ecological balance in the hills. He emphasized that such activities, without adequate environmental safeguards, have contributed to the current crisis.
Relief and Rehabilitation Efforts
The state government has initiated several measures to provide relief to the affected populations. Temporary shelters have been set up, and essential supplies such as food, water, and medical aid are being distributed. Rescue teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been deployed to assist in evacuation and search operations.
However, the scale of the disaster has posed significant challenges. The damaged infrastructure has hindered the movement of relief materials, and the ongoing threat of landslides has made certain areas inaccessible. Authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy, but the process is expected to take time.
Public Sentiment and Political Implications
The handling of the disaster and the subsequent political fallout have had a profound impact on public sentiment. Many residents of North Bengal feel neglected and abandoned, leading to protests and demonstrations in various parts of the region. The opposition parties have seized upon this discontent, calling for accountability and demanding a thorough investigation into the government’s preparedness and response.
The controversy surrounding the Chief Minister’s participation in the Durga Puja carnival has also sparked debates about priorities and governance. Critics argue that the government’s focus should have been on disaster management, while supporters contend that cultural events are integral to the state’s identity and should not be sidelined.
Conclusion
The floods and landslides in North Bengal have highlighted significant challenges in disaster management and infrastructure resilience. The criticism directed at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee underscores the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes both cultural heritage and the welfare of the people. As the state continues its recovery efforts, it is imperative to address the underlying issues that contribute to such disasters and to ensure that future responses are swift, coordinated, and effective.
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Darjeeling
The DDMA is responsible for coordinating disaster response and relief efforts in Darjeeling. They provide shelter, food, medical assistance, and facilitate the rebuilding of infrastructure. They also manage control rooms and conduct disaster preparedness training.
Website: darjeeling.gov.in/disaster-management
Control Room Contacts:
District Control Room: 0354-2255749
Sadar Subdivision: 0354-2254298
Kurseong Subdivision: 0354-2344448
Mirik Subdivision: 9832383667
Siliguri Subdivision: 0353-2510166
West Bengal Disaster Management & Civil Defence Department
This state-level department oversees disaster response and relief operations across West Bengal, including North Bengal. They manage the State Disaster Response Fund and coordinate with various agencies for effective disaster management.
Website: wbdmd.gov.in
Fund Allocation Information: Fund Allocation Details
Disaster Management Policy: West Bengal Disaster Management Policy
Emergency Contact Numbers
For immediate assistance or reporting missing persons, you can contact the following numbers:
Darjeeling District Control Room: 0354-2255749
Sadar Subdivision: 0354-2254298
Kurseong Subdivision: 0354-2344448
Mirik Subdivision: 9832383667
Siliguri Subdivision: 0353-2510166
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