PM Modi Announces Only Rs 1,600 Crores for Punjab Amid Flood Crisis, Sparks Outrage

Punjab is facing severe floods that have caused huge damage across the state. Millions of people have lost their homes, farmers’ crops have been destroyed, and many businesses are badly affected. In this time of crisis, people expected Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce a large relief package. But during his visit to Gurdaspur, he offered only Rs 1,600 crores. His remark, “Don’t you understand Hindi?” added to the anger, as it hurt people and insulted the Punjabi language.

Central Govt’s Response Sparks Outrage

When Disaster Management Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said the relief amount was insufficient, PM Modi laughed and replied, “Don’t you understand Hindi? I’ve already declared ₹1,600 crores.” Mundian responded firmly, saying, “I do understand Hindi, but the money is too little.” This exchange highlighted how the central government treated Punjab’s serious situation lightly. Many saw it as a disrespectful act toward both the people and the Punjabi language.

Political Leaders Demand Proper Compensation

AAP Punjab State President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora said, “Modi Ji has played a cruel joke on Punjab. Losses are over ₹20,000 crores, and giving only ₹1,600 crores is like adding salt to the wound.” He also demanded the immediate release of ₹60,000 crore funds owed to Punjab. Water Resources Minister Barinder Goyal called the relief package a “big joke,” while Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “After 30 days, Modi Ji remembered Punjab and offered just ₹1,600 crores, which is nothing compared to the loss.” Even BJP leader Ravneet Bittu admitted that Modi Ji’s remark hurt the Punjabi language. The AAP government urged the Centre to announce a meaningful relief package and release the withheld funds. They emphasized that Punjab, which has always been a strong supporter of the nation—from the freedom movement to feeding the country—will continue to support its people. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government promised to stand by flood-affected families, support farmers, and protect the pride of Punjab, even if the central government remains indifferent.