By Chandigarh, September 26: The Punjab Legislative Assembly began its special session on Thursday with heartfelt tributes to renowned personalities, including late comedian Jaswinder Bhalla, legendary music director Charanjit Ahuja, and former minister Harpal Singh Tohra. After observing condolences, the House was adjourned until 12 PM, setting the tone for a high-stakes discussion on the state’s recent flood crisis.
The special four-day sitting, scheduled from September 26 to 29, has been convened to address the extensive damage caused by this year’s devastating monsoon floods and to deliberate on the government’s plans for rehabilitation and recovery.
A Somber Start to the Session
The session opened with leaders across party lines uniting in mourning as they remembered nine individuals who passed away, including military personnel and cultural icons. The Assembly paid homage to Jaswinder Bhalla, whose contribution to Punjabi cinema and satire left an indelible mark, and Charanjit Ahuja, whose music defined generations of Punjabi soundtracks.
The atmosphere was respectful and subdued, reflecting the weight of both personal loss and the public crisis awaiting legislative scrutiny.
Flood Impact: A Looming Debate
Once the proceedings resume post-adjournment, attention will quickly pivot to post-flood challenges, as legislators are expected to raise concerns regarding relief distribution, compensation delays, and long-term rehabilitation plans.
The floods—among the worst in Punjab in decades—affected 2,565 villages across 23 districts, displacing nearly 3.9 lakh residents, claiming 57 lives, and leaving four people missing. Relief and restoration remain uneven, prompting mounting pressure on the state government.
Opposition Gears Up to Question AAP Government
With no Question Hour scheduled, MLAs will use Zero Hour to flag issues and grievances. The opposition is reportedly preparing to challenge the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on its handling of the floods, disaster preparedness, and law and order conditions across the state.
Sources suggest the debate could grow contentious, especially with opposition leaders demanding answers on how state disaster funds have been allocated.
Funding Becomes a Flashpoint
Though the Centre has released ₹1,600 crore in relief funds, it has emphasized that Punjab already has access to nearly ₹12,000 crore in its State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The Punjab government, however, maintains that more aid is essential to rebuild damaged infrastructure, provide crop compensation, and rehabilitate displaced families.
This difference in narratives could lead to heated arguments in the assembly as political leaders seek clarity and accountability.
