Kolkata, Aug 12: The West Bengal government has announced financial assistance of Rs 10 crore to Assam to support relief and rescue operations in flood-affected areas, amid reports of widespread disruption caused by the deluge.The announcement was made during a special sitting of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, where the government expressed solidarity with people affected by the floods in the neighbouring state.
The proposed assistance will be released from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and handed over to the Assam government for relief-related activities.The government also announced measures concerning former and sitting legislators.The monthly medical allowance for former MLAs is set to be increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000.
The revised allowance will be applicable from August, including eligible arrears, with a formal amendment expected to be introduced in the next Assembly session.The government also announced a monthly grant of Rs 30,000 for each sitting MLA to establish and operate a dedicated public grievance centre in their constituency.The centres will be named ‘Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Seba Kendras’ and will provide residents with a platform to raise local problems and seek assistance, irrespective of their political affiliation.
According to the announcement, MLAs availing the grant will have to comply with specified conditions, including displaying a government-provided photograph of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the centre.The Assembly was also informed about preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.
Around 70 lakh national flags have reportedly been distributed across the state under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign.District administrations have been instructed to invite elected MPs and MLAs to Independence Day programmes, while arrangements are also being made for the main celebrations at Red Road in Kolkata.
The state government is additionally planning state-wide celebrations for Rakhsha Bandhan, with the Youth Welfare, Sports and Information and Cultural Affairs departments involved in the programme.The announcements come as Assam continues to deal with the impact of severe flooding, with several states extending assistance and support for relief efforts.
