Amit Shah assures timely relief for TN floods

In a significant development following an all-party delegation’s meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, assurances have been given regarding the release of disaster relief funds for flood-affected Tamil Nadu. Led by DMK MP TR Baalu, the delegation conveyed the urgency of the situation, presenting a detailed report on the recent floods that wreaked havoc in the state. According to Baalu, the Home Minister pledged to release the relief funds to Tamil Nadu by January 27. This assurance comes after the delegation submitted a letter from Chief Minister MK Stalin, urging immediate financial assistance of Rs 37,907 crore to address the aftermath of the devastating floods in December. During the meeting, it was disclosed that central committees, after studying the flood-affected districts, would submit their reports to the government by January 21. Subsequently, the relief funds would be disbursed based on their recommendations, ensuring a streamlined and transparent process. Amit Shah reportedly emphasised that the central government recognizes the extensive damage inflicted on Tamil Nadu and assured that the relief assistance would be released promptly following due procedures. The union minister clarified that the delay was attributed to the careful analysis required by relevant departments, including Home Affairs, Agriculture, and Finance, post the expert committee’s report. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had earlier expressed concerns over the delayed disbursement of relief assistance despite central teams and Union Ministers assessing the damages caused by heavy rains. He pointed out that in contrast, relief assistance had been swiftly released for other states facing natural calamities.