Assam Government Cracks Down on Unauthorized Flood Relief Fund Collection
Government's New Directive on Flood Relief Fund Collection
Sarma consoles a flood-affected resident during his recent visit to Upper Assam. (Photo:@himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati, Aug 6: The Assam administration is set to enhance its efforts against unauthorized fundraising for flood relief. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday that law enforcement will take action against individuals and organizations soliciting donations for flood victims.
Sarma emphasized that flood relief efforts are now being managed directly by the government, eliminating the need for public fundraising through roadside appeals, donation boxes, or QR code systems.
"I have instructed the police to monitor these activities and ensure that no one collects flood relief funds from the public in this manner. The entire relief distribution process is now under government control," the Chief Minister stated.
He acknowledged that while such fundraising efforts may have been necessary during the initial flood response, the circumstances have evolved significantly.
"In the first week, the situation was different as the government could not reach every affected area immediately. Now, we have access to all flood-impacted regions, and individuals can approach authorities directly. The final assessment for relief and rehabilitation is currently in progress," he explained.
Sarma urged those who wish to help flood-affected families to do so using their own resources instead of soliciting public donations.
"If someone wants to contribute from their own funds, we welcome that. Even if a group of friends pools their resources to provide assistance, that is commendable. However, collecting money from shops and the public to distribute in your name is not beneficial," he remarked.
The Chief Minister pointed out that gathering donations from others and presenting them as personal contributions diminishes the essence of charity.
"If you take money from me and distribute it as your own, it ceases to be my contribution. You are merely redistributing funds collected from others. That does not constitute genuine flood relief," he stated.
Sarma also raised concerns that such practices could tarnish Assam's reputation.
"These actions only bring disrepute to Assam. Assisting flood victims is a noble endeavor, but it should be done using one's own means, not by collecting money from the public. Even the flood victims would not endorse such actions," he concluded.