Criticism Rains Down on Mamata Banerjee Amidst Himalayan Flood Crisis

In Kolkata, the CPI(M) sharply criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her participation in a Durga Puja carnival amid catastrophic flooding affecting the state's northern districts. The deluge has already claimed several lives, exacerbated by landslides and ongoing inclement weather conditions.

State Secretary Mohammed Salim condemned Banerjee's decision, calling her actions 'insensitive' and contrary to Bengal's cultural values. He accused the chief minister of evading responsibility by attributing the flood crisis to the Damodar Valley Corporation and nearby states, despite forecasts predicting heavy rains.

While Banerjee offered financial and job support to affected families, Salim insists on declaring the situation a national disaster and called for federal assistance. He also reported on alleged political violence against BJP figures in the region's politically charged atmosphere, pointing to environmental neglect as a factor worsening the disaster's impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)