Fri Sep 26 20:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary of the Text:**

The text reports on a session of the Punjab Assembly where Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema criticized the BJP-led central government for not disbursing any of the promised flood relief package to Punjab. He accused the central government of a “step-motherly” attitude. He also criticized the Congress party for aligning with the BJP and undermining Punjab’s interests. Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal demanded a larger special package for flood relief. The Leader of Opposition, Partap Singh Bajwa (Congress), blamed both the AAP government in Punjab and the central government for negligence and demanded a judicial inquiry.

**News Article:**

**Punjab Official Slams Central Government Over Flood Relief Funds**

**CHANDIGARH – September 27, 2025** – Tensions flared in the Punjab Assembly on Friday as Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused the BJP-led central government of neglecting the state in the wake of devastating floods. Cheema stated that despite Prime Minister Modi’s announcement of a ₹1600 crore relief package, not a single rupee has been received by Punjab.

“The central government is treating Punjab with a step-motherly attitude,” Cheema declared during a session focused on the state’s rehabilitation. He contrasted the perceived delay in assisting Punjab with the swift relief efforts extended to Afghanistan.

Cheema also criticized the Congress party, alleging that they are aligning with the BJP-led Union government and undermining Punjab’s efforts to secure aid.

Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal echoed Cheema’s concerns, demanding a special package of ₹20,000 crore to assist flood-affected families, farmers, and to rebuild critical infrastructure across the state.

However, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa of the Congress party countered, placing blame on both the AAP government in Punjab and the central government. He accused both parties of engaging in a blame game while failing to adequately address the devastation caused by the floods. Bajwa called for an independent judicial inquiry, headed by a High Court judge, to investigate the alleged “administrative negligence and gross mismanagement” that he believes contributed to the severity of the disaster. The inquiry would be time-bound and include representatives from all political parties.

The heated debate underscores the growing political friction surrounding the distribution of disaster relief and accountability for the recent floods that have ravaged Punjab.

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