'Insufficient' Relief Package, Says Owaisi

HYDERABAD: After Centre announced assistance for Cyclone Amphan for West Bengal and Odisha, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has severely criticised the government for "insufficient" relief packages for Cyclone Amphan-hit West Bengal and Odisha announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"It is unfortunate that this cyclone has claimed and affected many lives and caused damage to a large number of houses. The Prime Minister has visited the states and announced Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 500 crore relief fund for West Bengal and Odisha respectively. This relief amount will not be sufficient. The Government of India must work for the complete relief and rehabilitation to the affected," Owaisi said.

The Hyderabad MP further expressed solidarity with both the cyclone-affected states and prayed for their recovery.

"The devastation caused by Cyclone Amphan in Odisha and West Bengal is unimaginable. I and My party members are here for the people of these states as they began their difficult journey towards recovery. We pray for their relief," Owaisi said.

Modi announced a financial assistance of Rs 500 crore for Odisha to deal with the post-cyclone situation pending assessment of the damage by an inter-ministerial Central Team. For West Bengal, the PM announced a Rs 1,000 crore "advance interim assistance" for West Bengal after he undertook an aerial survey of the areas ravaged by Cyclone Amphan that has killed 86 people in the state.

Also Read | Cyclone Amphan Battered Odisha Receives Rs 500 Cr As Advance Assistance