Flash flood deaths: TMC-BJP war of words over safety measures; PM, CM announce ex gratia
The Hindu
PM Modi and W.B. CM Mamata Banerjee announced ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the incident
The death of eight people in the flash flood in Mal river in Jalpaiguri during immersion of Durga idols triggered a war of words on October 10 between the TMC and BJP, which accused the administration of not taking adequate safety measures.
The ruling TMC discarded the allegations as baseless and urged the saffron camp to stop its "vulture politics" of trying to politicise even accidents in the State.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the incident. Each of them also announced ₹50,000 to the injured.
The incident took place around 8.30 p.m. on Wednesday when hundreds of people gathered on the banks of the Mal river to participate in the immersion ceremony on Vijaya Dashami.
"₹2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each of the deceased in the tragic mishap during Durga Puja festivities in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. The injured would be given ₹50,000," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet.
The Chief Minister said about 70 people have been rescued and 13 people are undergoing treatment at the Mal super specialty hospital after the flash flood on Wednesday night.
"A tragic flash flood hit the Mal River in Jalpaiguri as Durga Visarjan was underway. Eight people lost their lives, I pray that their families find strength and solace in these difficult times," Ms. Banerjee tweeted.
Do you know what connects Edwin Hubble’s theory for an expanding universe and Albert Einstein’s cosmological constant? The “biggest blunder” of course! Can’t make head or tail? A.S.Ganesh fills you in with the universe…
Crowds flock to Auroville's Manju Virattu bull race, celebrating Pongal festivities with vibrant local culture and excitement.
NTR Collector highlights training 5,000 women entrepreneurs through RISE Centre, promoting economic self-reliance and skill development.
Massive crowds flocked to Visakhapatnam's attractions during "Mukkanuma," boosting tourism amid festive celebrations and illegal activities.
New Zealand's Glenn Phillips emphasizes focus over history as they prepare for the decisive ODI against India in Indore.
Chennai initiates a groundbreaking project for 24/7 piped water supply, transforming the city's water management strategy amid ongoing challenges.
Taiwan condemns Chinese drone's provocative flight over Pratas Islands, asserting it undermines regional peace and violates international norms.
Residents blockade road in Tiruvannamalai, demanding action against a stray leopard threatening safety and livestock in nearby villages.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin awards gold rings and coins to bull tamers at a bustling Alanganallur jallikattu event.
Hyderabad's Indo-US healthcare meet fosters collaboration, featuring leaders from the American Medical Association and Indian medical professionals.
PM Modi criticizes the Opposition in Assam for exploiting issues, emphasizing development and restoring trust among the community.
SNIPPETS
Kathawate Mayur Ashok takes charge as Guntur Municipal Corporation Commissioner, prioritizing tax collection and urban development initiatives.