Punjab govt to compensate farmers for crops, livestock and poultry losses; CM Mann announces date

Chandigarh (Uttam Hindu News) – Today was the second and final day of the special session of the Punjab Assembly called to address the rehabilitation of flood-affected people. The House unanimously passed a resolution on flood relief and rehabilitation. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the state government will begin issuing compensation checks to farmers, livestock farmers, and other affected people starting October 15. He said he will meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday evening.

"Compensation will be given even for sheep and goats."

AAP minister Hardeep Singh Mundian took a dig at PM Modi's relief package, saying the ₹1,600 crore announced was insufficient. He alleged that when he questioned it, the PM arrogantly replied, "He doesn't know Hindi." Mundian claimed that the Punjab government would compensate the affected people for their crops, livestock, and even sheep, goats, and chickens.

Heated debates and confrontations ensued.

Minister Aman Arora attacked the Congress party, saying that its ministers had avoided public meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic, while AAP ministers remained active in flood relief efforts. Meanwhile, AAP MLA from Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdas Randhawa, and Congress MLA Aruna Chaudhary clashed over the Sakke drain issue. Chaudhary demanded that an assembly committee be formed to investigate the matter so that the truth could be revealed.

The BJP boycotted this special session and held a "People's Assembly" in Sector 37. Minister Harbhajan Eto responded by saying the BJP was running away from debate and should come to the Assembly to speak on public issues. Finance Minister Cheema also accused the BJP of mocking the Constitution by holding a parallel session.