BJP Accused of Spreading Falsehoods on Disaster Relief Funds Amid Punjab Government Scrutiny

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has accused the BJP of spreading misinformation regarding disaster relief funds. He stated that only Rs 1,582 crore has been received since April 2022, countering claims about the Rs 12,000 crore allocation.

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema criticised the BJP on Thursday, accusing it of spreading falsehoods about the AAP government. He stated that since April 2022, Punjab has received only Rs 1,582 crore from the Centre under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). This comes amid opposition parties questioning the handling of Rs 12,000 crore in disaster relief funds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced an additional Rs 1,600 crore for Punjab, adding to the existing Rs 12,000 crore. BJP leader Tarun Chugh questioned the state government about the whereabouts of these funds. Similarly, Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring demanded transparency from the Mann administration, alleging fund diversion.

SDRF Fund Allocation and Spending

Cheema provided detailed accounts of SDRF allocations and expenditures. In 2022-23, Punjab received Rs 208 crore and spent Rs 61 crore. The following year, Rs 645 crore was received with Rs 420 crore spent. For 2024-25, Rs 488 crore was allocated and Rs 27 crore used. In 2025-26, Rs 241 crore was received with Rs 140 crore spent.

From April 1, 2022, to September 10, 2025, Punjab received a total of Rs 1,582 crore under SDRF. Of this amount, Rs 649 crore has been utilised for relief and rehabilitation efforts across the state. The remaining funds are earmarked for ongoing and future relief operations to support flood-affected communities.

Accusations Against BJP

Cheema accused BJP leaders of deliberately misleading the public regarding disaster relief funds. He stated, "BJP leaders have been shamelessly peddling lies to defame the AAP government. The truth is now before the people, and every single rupee received and spent from SDRF is in the public domain. Unlike the BJP, which thrives on deceit and diversion, we believe in transparency and accountability."

The minister also challenged Punjab BJP leaders to explain why the Centre has withheld significant dues owed to Punjab under various categories. He criticised their campaign as malicious and politically motivated during times of crisis.

Cheema further asserted that those who never supported Punjab's rights lack moral authority to question his government. He described their actions as irresponsible and shameful even by BJP standards.

With inputs from PTI