Escalating political pressure on the state administration, the Odisha Congress has launched a scathing attack on the government over its handling of the recent floods, calling the widespread devastation a result of administrative apathy and complete lack of foresight.
Addressing a press meet, Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Chief Bhakta Charan Das criticised the state’s disaster response mechanism, particularly questioning the role of the Chief Minister, who holds the Water Resources Department portfolio. Das pointedly asked why the administration failed to take proactive measures despite clear and timely rainfall warnings issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Key Demands and Allegations Raised by Congress:
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Lack of Early Preparation: Das questioned the reckless timing of water release from reservoirs after heavy downpours, demanding to know who was accountable for the resulting deluge in vulnerable districts.
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Action Against Officials: Expressing strong displeasure over a viral video featuring former Chief Secretary Suresh Mahapatra, the Congress leader demanded strict departmental action against officials whose negligence worsened the crisis.
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Financial Package & National Status: The party has formally demanded that the central government declare the Odisha floods a national disaster alongside an immediate special assistance package of Rs 5,000 crore.
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Relief for Farmers: Highlighting that over 2 lakh hectares of agricultural land have suffered severe crop destruction, Congress demanded comprehensive compensation for affected farmers calculated strictly on the basis of Minimum Support Prices (MSP).
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Long-Term Preventive Measures: The opposition party urged the government to establish robust, advance precautionary frameworks across all 10 known flood-prone districts in the state.
As the political fallout from the disaster intensifies, the ruling administration faces mounting pressure to address accountability, provide immediate financial relief to distressed farming communities, and overhaul its flood management strategy before the next monsoon season.
