Chandigarh: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Giani Harpreet Singh has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately declare the floods in Punjab a national calamity and extend urgent relief to the affected population. In a strongly worded letter, Singh highlighted the extensive destruction caused by the deluge and urged the Centre to release pending compensation and ensure long-term safeguards against such disasters.
Singh underlined Punjab’s historical role in safeguarding the nation, from sacrifices made during India’s independence movement to the contribution of Sikh Gurus and freedom fighters. He said that despite being the backbone of India’s food security, Punjab continues to face neglect and discrimination.
“Over 3.5 lakh people have been displaced, thousands of livestock lost, and nearly 1,500 villages submerged. Entire crops, homes, and essential infrastructure have been ruined,” Singh wrote, stressing the need for immediate financial aid, rehabilitation, and agricultural compensation.
The SAD leader outlined a detailed 11-point demand list that included:
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A comprehensive relief package for families, including food, medicines, and shelter.
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Full compensation for destroyed crops, damaged machinery, and livestock.
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Debt relief for farmers and small traders in flood-hit areas.
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Restoration of roads, bridges, health services, and grain markets.
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Deployment of NDRF and Army units for large-scale relief operations.
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A permanent disaster management mechanism to tackle future calamities.
He also pressed for Punjab’s right over its river waters, royalty dues, and immediate control over the Bhakra Beas Management Board, arguing that lack of state authority has worsened the crisis.
Singh further accused the Centre of failing to deliver on last year’s promised compensation and urged that dues be cleared transparently without delay.
Concluding his appeal, the SAD president said, “Punjab has always stood by the nation in times of crisis. Now, it is time for the Centre to stand with Punjab. The people look to the Union government with hope—for timely relief and long-term security.”
