The Significance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s Proactive Engagement with Flood-Affected States
During the recent floods in Assam, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat, Union Home Minister Amit Shah's proactive engagement with the state governments has been crucial in managing and addressing the ongoing crisis. This article delves into the importance of such actions and highlights the challenges faced by the affected states.
Current Status of Development Projects in India
Since the BJP's tenure began over a decade ago, there has been a significant focus on infrastructure development. The completion of over 15 bridges in Bihar is a notable achievement. However, the question arises as to why the government did not take preemptive measures to prevent deaths and failures, such as the recent incidents.
The focus on development projects, particularly in states like Assam, has been a contentious issue. For instance, despite 90 deaths and over 40 cases of violence reported in Assam, the Chief Minister Hemanth Biswas has consistently highlighted the presence of Muslims, which adds to the complexity of the situation. The establishment of the Assam Sustainable Development and Management Authority (ASDMA) to address 18 districts and estimate that 5 lakh above people faced flood problems in Assam, with 52 revenue divisions and 1,342 villages submerged, indicates the enormity of the task at hand.
Uttar Pradesh: A Complex Political Landscape
In Uttar Pradesh, nearly 900 villages and 18 lakh people have been affected by the floods. The Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, faces similar challenges, with religious riots being a consistent issue. However, his role in addressing natural hazards is often questioned. The urgency of receiving immediate assistance and the effectiveness of Amit Shah in resolving such issues through phone calls rather than on-the-ground actions have been areas of criticism.
The recent failure to handle the situation effectively, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has raised concerns about the BJP's capabilities. The lack of effective measures to prevent suicides among agricultural workers, such as those in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, is another pressing issue. For instance, 3500 rythsu farmers in Karnataka and 1065 in Andhra Pradesh have committed suicide due to agricultural problems, leading to public outcry.
Crucial Measures to Prevent Future Floods
To mitigate the effects of future floods, several precautionary measures should be implemented. For instance, constructing reservoirs and utilizing perennial river water for various purposes can significantly reduce flood risks. Additionally, building water stagnation areas and cultivating crops during the Zayad season can help manage water resources more efficiently.
However, such initiatives have not been a priority under the current administration. The BJP's failure to address these issues has resulted in increased public discontent, with calls for resignation from the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. The perception that the government has not taken the necessary steps to protect the nation and its citizens is widespread.
Future Outlook and Conclusion
As the BJP approaches the next parliamentary elections, it is crucial that the party takes ownership of its responsibilities and takes concrete steps to address the issues affecting the states. Proactive engagement with state governments and immediate action in crisis situations will be key to gaining public trust and support.
The challenges faced by states like Assam, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat highlight the need for a more robust and empathetic approach to governance. The BJP must learn from past mistakes and take decisive action to prevent future crises, ensuring the welfare and wellbeing of all citizens.