Maharashtra Flood Relief Delay Sparks Political Tensions as Centre Awaits State Report

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, currently visiting Maharashtra's Ahilyanagar for cooperative sector events, has assured that central assistance for flood-affected farmers will not be delayed once the state government submits its comprehensive report.

During his visit, Shah stated, "The Maharashtra Chief Minister and both Deputy Chief Ministers met with me yesterday. I have given them assurance that once the state government provides a detailed report, the Centre will process assistance without delay."

This statement comes amid growing criticism from Opposition parties regarding the perceived slowness of central relief efforts. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction has specifically highlighted how the Centre swiftly approved over Rs 10,000 crore to support more than 75,000 women in Bihar before assembly elections, while Maharashtra continues to await similar prompt action.

Following his inspection of flood-affected regions in Marathwada, the Chief Minister had discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding a relief proposal. However, Shah's comments suggest the formal report has not yet been submitted.

Sharad Pawar, the NCP (SP) leader, has also called for expedited action, stating, "The government has not yet submitted a final proposal. I strongly urge the state government to complete this within the next two days."

As part of his Maharashtra itinerary, Shah was scheduled to visit Pravaranagar in Loni to unveil life-size statues honoring cooperative movement leaders Padma Shri Vithalrao Vikhe Patil and Padma Bhushan Balasaheb Vikhe Patil, where he addressed attendees.

Shah's agenda also includes inaugurating India's first cooperative Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant located in Kopargaon, alongside a spray dryer and potash granule manufacturing facility, before speaking at a farmers' and cooperative rally.

This represents Shah's first visit to the region since the devastating floods in Marathwada, where the agricultural community continues awaiting comprehensive relief assistance from the central government.