Mamata Banerjee Declares ₹5 Lakh Ex-Gratia and Homeguard Jobs for Flood Victims’ Kin Ahead of North Bengal Visit
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a significant relief package for the families of those who lost their lives in the recent floods and landslides in North Bengal. Ahead of her two-day visit to the affected region, she declared that each next of kin of the deceased would receive ₹5 lakh as ex-gratia, and one member from each bereaved family would be offered a position as a Homeguard.
Catastrophe in North Bengal
Heavy, unrelenting rainfall in the upper reaches of North Bengal over the past days unleashed floods and landslides across several districts, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar. Reports indicate that over 300 mm of rain fell within 12 hours, leading to river overflow, embankment breaches, and massive waterlogging. Many residents were caught off-guard as hillsides collapsed and homes were swept away.
By the time the situation began to stabilize, the death toll had crossed two dozen lives. The worst-hit zones include Mirik and Nagrakata among others, where landslides and flash floods claimed multiple lives. Rescue operations and relief work were immediately launched, with local authorities, NDRF and state disaster teams coordinating efforts to evacuate stranded residents and provide aid.
Relief Package: What It Means
Mamata Banerjee’s announcement came just ahead of her departure to North Bengal. She said the state government would give an ex-gratia compensation of ₹5 lakh to the families of those who died in the calamities. More than just financial aid, her plan also includes extending employment support: a Homeguard job would be offered to one member of each bereaved family.
A Homeguard post, though not a permanent role, provides a steady stipend and status as a state security volunteer — a measure many families view as symbolic and practical relief in a time of crisis. The dual promise of monetary compensation and a job reflects the government’s attempt to balance immediate succor and longer-term assistance.
Politics, Perception and Patrolling the Ground
The timing of the announcement, just before Banerjee’s visit to the region, inevitably draws political scrutiny. Critics may view it as a gesture aimed at reinforcing her presence in North Bengal ahead of elections. But many who have lost loved ones see it as a much-needed relief amid tragedy. The Chief Minister has positioned her trip not only as fact-finding but as a demonstration of empathy and urgent governance.
In her public remarks, Banerjee also blamed the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for “unrestricted” water releases, which she claimed exacerbated flooding in Bengal. She alleged that the floods carried a “man-made dimension” because upstream water bodies were released without coordination, placing downstream communities at risk.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the generosity of the relief package, implementation will be key. Identifying bona fide claimants, disbursing funds efficiently, and ensuring fair access to Homeguard appointments are all tasks that will test the administrative machinery. In flood-affected terrain, logistical hurdles such as disrupted roads, communication blackouts, and continued weather risks may delay relief efforts.
Moreover, some families will no doubt argue that money and jobs cannot undo the human loss. The psychological trauma and disruption of lives, homes and livelihoods will endure far longer than any compensation can cover. The government’s long-term focus must also include rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening early warning systems, and reinforcing hill slopes and embankments to prevent repeat disasters.
What the Public and Stakeholders Expect
As Banerjee arrives in North Bengal, she will be watched closely. Will the funds reach victims swiftly? Will the Homeguard positions genuinely benefit those in need? Will the relief be coupled with tangible measures to restore roads, rebuild homes and fortify vulnerable zones?
For many in North Bengal, the Chief Minister’s gesture has brought a fresh glimmer of hope in dark times. If delivered properly, the ex-gratia and job assurances could ease some of the burden, and signal that the state government is responsive when disaster strikes.
In the coming days, as Mamata Banerjee tours flood-affected areas, she will face both expectations and scrutiny — expectations of compassion and prompt action, and scrutiny over execution and accountability. Whether this relief package becomes a meaningful support for grieving families or a promise unfulfilled will depend on the resolve and efficiency of those tasked to carry it out.
