By News Karnataka Editorial Team

Copyright newskarnataka

Chandigarh (Punjab): Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday announced that the ongoing session of the State Assembly will continue discussions on the Rehabilitation Bill, introduced in the aftermath of the devastating floods that struck Punjab earlier this year. The bill, tabled by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, aims to provide a structured response to rehabilitation and relief for those affected by the widespread loss of life and property.

Demand for flood relief funds

Cheema highlighted that the state had sought financial assistance of ₹20,000 crore from the Centre to deal with the damages caused by the floods. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Punjab, announced only ₹1,600 crore, which, according to the minister, has not yet been released.

“Punjab demanded compensation of ₹20,000 crore for the losses, but the Prime Minister announced only ₹1,600 crore and left, which has still not been received. We will discuss this as well,” Cheema told reporters.

The floods, which ravaged several districts of Punjab, destroyed crops, displaced families, and damaged critical infrastructure. Farmers’ unions have repeatedly urged the state and central governments to provide timely aid to prevent further agrarian distress.

Criticism of BJP MLAs

The Finance Minister also criticised the BJP legislators from Punjab, alleging that they were absent when the Assembly was deliberating on crucial issues concerning the people of the state.

“It is unfortunate that on the very first day, two BJP MLAs slipped away from the House. They did not raise Punjab’s concerns with the Centre, even though the Speaker had given them time,” Cheema said.

He further claimed that BJP MLAs from Pathankot and Mukerian were holding a “mock assembly” from their office. “The BJP is running a virtual assembly, making fun of their people and of democracy. They cannot face the truth and are running away from listening to it. This is a party of mere slogans,” he added.

Legislative agenda

Apart from the Rehabilitation Bill, Cheema stated that several key legislations would be discussed and passed on the last day of the Assembly session. Among them are the Punjab Seed Bill 2025, aimed at regulating seed quality and availability, and the Punjab Right to Business Bill 2025, designed to ease regulatory hurdles for entrepreneurs in the state.

“These bills will contribute to the welfare of Punjab and support both farmers and business owners. The Assembly is committed to ensuring that the voices of the people are reflected in our legislation,” he said.

As the Assembly session concluded, the focus remained firmly on rehabilitation measures and the financial support required to help Punjab recover from the flood’s devastation. The state government continues to press for greater assistance from the Centre, even as it pushes forward with local legislative measures aimed at long-term welfare and resilience.