Assam Flood Victims Allege Mismanagement and Exclusion in Government Relief Fund Distribution

A CORRESPONDENT

NAZIRA: Serious allegations of irregularities have surfaced in the distribution of government relief funds to victims of the devastating floods caused by the Dikhow river in Assam’s Sivasagar and Charaideo districts. Reports from affected areas indicate growing resentment among flood-hit families who claim they have been unfairly excluded from financial assistance.

Following the catastrophic floods, people from across the country—ranging from individuals to organisations and public figures—extended generous support to the affected communities. Many contributed food, clothing, utensils, and even helped rebuild homes and clean flood-ravaged institutions such as schools and prayer halls. Prominent personalities and social groups were actively involved in relief efforts, ensuring that victims did not feel abandoned during the crisis.

Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma also visited the affected regions for a second time, wading through mud and water to assess the situation. He personally met bereaved families and handed over financial aid. The government had announced an interim relief of Rs 15,000 for each affected family, with assurances that the amount would be credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts by August 5.

However, while some families have received the funds, many others—despite suffering severe losses—claim they have not received any assistance. This has raised pressing questions about administrative lapses and accountability.

Adding to the controversy are allegations that several individuals from non-flooded areas in Nazira and Dimow constituencies have reportedly received the relief amount, while genuinely affected families remain deprived. In some cases, it is alleged that multiple members of the same family received separate payments, further intensifying concerns over mismanagement.

Residents from numerous severely affected areas—including Lonpuria, Ramugaon, Upper Nazira, Sundarpukhuri, Rajapul, Amolapatti, Simaluguri, Teteliguri, Bogoriguri, Santak, Bihubar, Gormur, Tairai Gaon, Majpathar, Chetia Sandikai, and Lefera—have reported that relief funds have yet to reach their bank accounts.

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