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**Summary:**

Following torrential rains that caused widespread flooding and electrocution deaths in Kolkata, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced compensation for the victims’ families. The move has sparked political controversy, with the opposition criticizing the government’s handling of the situation and offering alternative compensation. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rainfall, raising concerns about further disruptions.

**News Article:**

**Kolkata Reels From Rain, Electrocution Deaths Spark Political Storm**

**Kolkata, September 24, 2025** – Kolkata is grappling with the aftermath of torrential rains that caused widespread flooding and tragic electrocution deaths on Tuesday. Nine people, eight of them in Kolkata, died after coming into contact with live wires in waterlogged areas.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and urged the Calcutta Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) to provide an additional ₹5 lakh. “For those who tragically lost their lives due to electrocution yesterday, the State government will provide ₹2 lakh to their families,” Banerjee stated while inaugurating Durga Puja pandals, a move that drew criticism for its timing. “While money cannot replace lives, we will also ensure that employment is provided to the next of kin, even if CESC fails to do so.”

The compensation announcement has ignited a political firestorm. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari urged families to reject the state’s offer, promising ₹2.5 lakh from his own resources, blaming Banerjee and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim for the deaths. Meanwhile, Kolkata Municipal Corporation Member Tarak Singh sparked outrage by comparing people wading through floodwaters to attempted suicide. The BJP also held a press conference criticizing the Chief Minister for claiming 95% completion of street lighting work.

Amid the political bickering, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called on party workers to offer support and urged swift action from both state and central governments to restore normalcy. “My thoughts are with the people of Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal as they endure the devastation caused by incessant rainfall and flooding. Heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones,” he said.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast of light to moderate rainfall for south Bengal until September 28, citing the likely formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. The system is expected to intensify into a depression and cross the south Odisha-north Andhra Pradesh coasts around September 27, raising concerns about potential further flooding and disruption. The state remains on alert as it prepares for further potential weather-related challenges.

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