CPI(M) Demands National Disaster Status for Assam Floods

The CPI(M) is escalating its demands for the Assam floods to be declared a national disaster, calling for a thorough investigation and enhanced relief measures. Scheduled protests on August 21 aim to highlight the plight of affected families and push for a structured response to the ongoing flood crisis. The party's 10-point plan includes significant financial compensation and support for recovery efforts, emphasizing the need for immediate action from both state and central governments. This initiative seeks to address the devastating impact of the floods that have left thousands in distress across Upper Assam.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 20, 2026, 11:31 IST

CPI(M) Calls for Action on Assam Flood Crisis

Only rooftops remain visible as devastating floodwaters engulf an entire village in Upper Assam, leaving families stranded

GUWAHATI, Aug 20: The CPI(M) is intensifying its demands directed at both the Central and Assam state governments regarding the catastrophic floods in Upper Assam. They have announced a statewide 'Demand Day' on August 21, urging that the floods be classified as a national disaster, alongside a thorough investigation into their causes and a structured plan to address Assam's ongoing flood challenges.

The party is advocating for significant increases in relief and compensation, proposing Rs 20 lakh for families who have lost loved ones, immediate assistance of Rs 1 lakh for each affected household, and up to Rs 10 lakh for homes that have been completely destroyed.

In Guwahati, the Kamrup (Metropolitan) district committee plans to hold a protest and dharna outside Meghdoot Bhawan at Panbazar starting at 11 am as part of the statewide movement.

“The unprecedented flooding that began on July 19 in Sivasagar and Charaideo has since impacted Jorhat, Golaghat, and other districts, leaving thousands of families in distress. The government has yet to disclose the specific reasons for the disaster's severity, and an expert committee should be formed to investigate and report its findings within a set timeframe,” stated Suprakash Talukdar, secretary of the CPI(M) Assam State Committee.

The party also emphasized the need to investigate local concerns regarding illegal mining and environmental degradation in Assam and Nagaland, alongside natural causes. They called for an evaluation of the cumulative effects of large dams in neighboring states and Bhutan on Assam's flooding issues.

Among its primary requests to the Central government, the party has called for a halt to the construction of large dams in adjacent states until their overall impact on Assam is thoroughly assessed. They also demand that Assam's flooding be recognized as a national concern, with a structured program developed for a lasting solution.

The CPI(M) has presented a 10-point relief and rehabilitation plan to the state government. This includes increased compensation, a minimum of Rs 5 lakh for homes that have suffered severe damage, higher compensation for agricultural and livestock losses, provision of free food for flood-affected families for six months, and urgent distribution of free paddy seedlings to help farmers restart their cultivation.

Additionally, they are calling for adequate healthcare services to prevent disease outbreaks post-flood, veterinary assistance in affected regions, and at least 200 days of government-supported employment for residents of flood-impacted villages. Special funds are requested for the repair of damaged educational institutions and Anganwadi centers, along with free uniforms, books, and financial aid for affected students. The party also seeks loan waivers for families severely impacted by the floods.

Talukdar mentioned that party units throughout the state will organize protests on August 21 and submit memoranda to the relevant authorities.

Staff Reporter