**
Abhishek Banerjee Leads Donation Drive for Flood Victims
In a significant gesture of solidarity, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has initiated a donation drive for the flood-ravaged districts of North Bengal, with Trinamool leaders following Abhishek Banerjee’s lead to donate for flood relief. The move comes after a powerful call to action from the party’s National General Secretary.
The devastating flash floods, triggered by a glacial lake outburst in Sikkim, have caused the Teesta river to swell, leading to unprecedented destruction in Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and Jalpaiguri. As rescue operations continue, the state’s ruling party is mobilising its own ranks for immediate financial assistance.
The initiative began on Sunday when Abhishek Banerjee, the party’s second-in-command, announced his decision to donate his salary for the next two months to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. In a social media post, he urged party members and the public to contribute generously, stating, “In this hour of crisis, we must all stand unitedly by the people.”
A Cascade of Support from TMC Ranks
Following Abhishek Banerjee’s announcement, a well-orchestrated wave of similar pledges emerged from the TMC leadership. Senior ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) across West Bengal quickly joined the cause, pledging their salaries and personal contributions.
From veteran leaders in Kolkata to district-level functionaries, the party’s response was swift and unified. This collective action demonstrates a clear message: the TMC stands with the people of North Bengal not just in words, but through tangible financial support.
Political Messaging Behind the Humanitarian Gesture
Sources within the TMC suggest this is more than a simple charitable exercise. This strategic move aims to achieve several political objectives:
* Reinforcing Leadership: It positions Abhishek Banerjee as a proactive and empathetic leader capable of mobilising the entire party, reinforcing his authority.
* Countering Opposition: The donation drive serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the BJP’s criticism of the state government’s response. By taking direct action, the TMC portrays itself as genuinely invested in public welfare, challenging the opposition to match its gesture.
* Centre-State Dynamics: Amidst ongoing requests for central aid, this internal fundraising effort showcases the party’s self-reliance. It frames the TMC as a party that takes matters into its own hands to support its people, independent of assistance from New Delhi.
The Grim Reality on the Ground
The situation in North Bengal remains critical. Thousands of people have been displaced, essential infrastructure like bridges and roads has been washed away, and the death toll continues to rise. The state government, alongside the NDRF, is conducting massive relief operations to provide shelter, food, and medical aid to those affected by the Teesta’s fury.
While the political optics of the donation drive are clear, the funds generated will provide crucial support for the ongoing relief efforts. For the families who have lost everything to this tragic disaster, the timely arrival of aid is paramount, and this collective effort aims to provide just that.
**
