Parminder Mehta Resigns in Protest
Ludhiana: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab suffered a setback after senior leader and former councilor Parminder Mehta announced his resignation. The move came during a press conference at Circuit House where Mehta criticized the Centre’s failure to address the flood crisis in Punjab.
Mehta, who also served as a media panelist for BJP Punjab, expressed deep disappointment over the Union government’s response. He alleged that despite the worsening situation, the Centre has not released a relief package or extended any significant support to flood-hit families.
He said the decision to resign was taken with a heavy heart but was necessary to highlight the Centre’s indifference.
Flood Situation Alarming Across Punjab
Punjab has been reeling under severe floods caused by continuous monsoon rains. Farmlands, villages, and towns across the state remain submerged, leading to extensive damage. Thousands of families have been displaced, while crops over vast tracts of land have been destroyed.
Mehta said that the flood situation in Punjab is alarming. “There is no part of the state that has been spared,” he remarked. Relief operations are ongoing, but affected families continue to face shortages of food, medicines, and shelter.
Local communities, social organizations, and state agencies are working tirelessly to support those in distress. However, Mehta accused the central government of stepmotherly treatment, claiming that Punjab has been left to fend for itself in this crisis.
“Time to Rise Above Politics,” Says Mehta
In his address, Mehta emphasized the need to put humanity above partisanship. He urged all political parties and citizens to unite in helping flood-affected families. “This is not the time for politics. It is the time to extend a helping hand,” he said.
Mehta reiterated his identity as a proud Punjabi who would continue to fight for the state’s interests, even outside BJP. He noted that many individuals and organizations are contributing resources to relief work, but without central assistance, the recovery will remain slow and painful.
His resignation underscores growing frustration among local leaders and citizens who believe that Punjab has been neglected in national disaster relief planning.
Centre’s Silence Sparks Anger
The absence of a formal relief package from the Centre has become a major point of contention. Opposition leaders and social groups have criticized the lack of urgency in addressing the humanitarian and economic fallout.
Observers believe that Mehta’s resignation could spark further dissent within Punjab BJP ranks, especially if the Centre continues to remain silent on relief measures. Political analysts suggest that the issue may also influence voter sentiment in upcoming elections, with citizens prioritizing disaster management as a key concern.
Conclusion
The resignation of Parminder Mehta highlights growing discontent in Punjab over the Centre’s handling of the flood crisis. With thousands of families displaced and farmlands destroyed, the demand for urgent relief is louder than ever.
Mehta’s exit from BJP is not only a political statement but also a call for collective solidarity. As Punjab struggles to recover, questions remain about whether the Centre will step in with meaningful support or continue to face criticism for inaction.