Amid severe floods and landslides wreaking havoc across North Bengal, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Sunday criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for participating in dance festivities on Red Road while the region battles destruction and rising casualties due to incessant rainfall.
Majumdar: “Chief Minister Dancing While North Bengal Suffers”
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Majumdar lashed out at Banerjee, saying,
“While everyone — from the Prime Minister to the Home Minister — is expressing concern and monitoring the situation, how utterly inhumane and cruel must the Chief Minister be to not visit the affected areas and instead dance on the carnival stage!”
He accused the Chief Minister of neglecting the people of North Bengal’s hilly regions, alleging that she prioritised “games, fairs, and carnivals” over providing relief to disaster-hit citizens.
Majumdar also referred to the recent electrocution deaths in Kolkata due to waterlogging, claiming Banerjee “skillfully evaded all responsibility” while engaging in festivities.
“Do not forget, Chief Minister, the common people of the state are watching all your actions. Your arrogance will be judged in the court of the people,” he warned.
Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri Reel Under Heavy Rains
Continuous rainfall has led to landslides, road blockages, and severe flooding in several districts including Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. Many areas remain cut off due to damaged roads and overflowing rivers.
Following the landslides, the West Bengal Governor reactivated the Peace Room at Raj Bhavan, placing it on high alert. A 24×7 Rapid Action Cell has been set up to coordinate rescue and relief operations, headed by Sandeep Singh Rajput (Officer on Special Duty).
Citizens in distress can contact 033-22001641 or email peaceroomrajbhavan@gmail.com.
Weather Department Issues Orange and Yellow Alerts
According to the Alipore Meteorological Department, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely over the next few hours.
- Orange alert: Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar — for heavy rainfall with winds up to 50 kmph.
- Yellow alert: Bankura, Jhargram, West Midnapore, and East Burdwan — for moderate to heavy rains with gusty winds (30–40 kmph).
Train Services Disrupted
Heavy rains have disrupted train services across five North Bengal districts. The North East Frontier Railway has cancelled multiple services, including:
- Siliguri–Dhubri DEMU
- NJP–Alipurduar Tourist Special
- Siliguri–Bamanhat Express
Several trains are being short-terminated or diverted, with the Kanchanakanya Express and Mahananda Express operating on altered routes.
The landslide at Dilaram on Kurseong Road has blocked access to Darjeeling, while Rohini Road has also been affected. Tindharia Road remains operational for now.
