Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, detailing the severe devastation caused by recent floods in Punjab and requesting a robust, comprehensive relief package.
In his letter, dated September 16, Mr. Gandhi expressed strong disapproval of the ₹1,600 crore interim relief announced by the Centre, asserting that it represents a ‘grave injustice’ to the resilient people of Punjab. He stated, ‘Estimates suggest that the State has suffered a loss of at least ₹20,000 crore. This crisis demands a bolder response. I request the government to facilitate a quick assessment of the damage and deliver a comprehensive relief package.’ This communication was publicly shared by the Congress party on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.
Earlier, on Monday, the prominent Opposition leader and Member of Parliament personally visited the flood-stricken regions in Punjab’s Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts, engaging directly with affected residents.
‘Vast Farmland Uncultivable’
Mr. Gandhi recounted his observations from the ground, stating, ‘During my recent visit, I witnessed the shocking devastation and its human cost. Over four lakh acres of paddy crop have been destroyed, and over 10 lakh animals have perished. Lakhs of people, mostly from marginalized communities, have lost their homes. The flood has also rendered vast tracts of land uncultivable in the near future.’
He further noted that amidst this profound crisis, the ‘very best of humanity’ was evident, as communities rallied together to support those who had lost everything. People generously opened their homes to strangers and shared their limited resources, he added.
Concluding his appeal, Mr. Gandhi stressed the collective responsibility: ‘In their hour of need, we must reassure every farmer, every soldier, and every family in Punjab that India stands with them. We must come together and extend all possible support to help rebuild their future.’