Betiya, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : In Betiya, Bihar, MLA Vinay Bihari staged a protest against his own government on September 29, expressing dissatisfaction with the flood relief efforts in the flood-affected West Champaran district. He set up a sit-in at the district collectorate, voicing concerns about the hardships faced by the public due to the ongoing flood crisis.
Bihari highlighted that the flood situation has persisted for nearly a month, impacting residents and crops in areas such as Lauriya, Sikrahna, Pandai, and Gandak. Despite these challenges, he claimed that adequate relief has not reached the affected individuals.
“The public is suffering greatly from the floods, and I am not satisfied with the current arrangements,” Bihari stated. “The scale of the disaster demands a more effective response. I have no choice but to take this step.” He revealed that he had been waiting to meet with the district magistrate since noon, having previously urged the official to address the issues faced by flood victims urgently.
Bihari mentioned that he has met with the Chief Minister four times and the relevant minister twice regarding flood relief and compensation. He also noted that he has raised these concerns with the district magistrate numerous times. He accused the administration of repeatedly stating that the financial aid of 7,000 rupees for flood victims could not be distributed yet, claiming that the flood levels were not severe enough.
Currently, Bihari is in the affected areas, where the Sikrahna River and the Gandak River have caused significant damage. Villages such as Mariya, Matarai, Sathi, and Parsouni have also been impacted by the Pandai River. He emphasized that crops have suffered extensive damage, with water inundating many regions. Yet, the only relief material provided so far has been plastic sheets, he lamented, calling for adequate compensation and support for the impacted residents.
Regarding the Chief Minister’s visits, Bihari noted that while the Chief Minister has toured several districts, he has yet to visit Lauriya and the flood-affected regions. He expressed a desire for the Chief Minister to witness the ground realities firsthand. Bihari clarified that his protest is not against the government but rather a plea for the people’s needs. “I hoped that my sit-in would bring some relief to our deserving public,” he stated.
He concluded by expressing hope that the Chief Minister would soon address the issues faced by flood-affected residents.
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