Debate Erupts Over Centralization in India's Disaster Management Bill

Opposition members in India's Rajya Sabha voiced concerns about centralization in the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, arguing it grants excessive power to the Centre at the expense of states. Critics argue this could hinder disaster response effectiveness. Proponents, however, claim it modernizes and strengthens national disaster management strategies.

In a contentious debate in the Rajya Sabha, opposition leaders voiced strong objections to the recently proposed Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, accusing the NDA government of over-centralizing authority. The bill, they argue, takes power away from the states, potentially undermining their ability to efficiently manage disasters.

During the discussion, Sanjay Yadav of the RJD highlighted Bihar's vulnerability to natural calamities, emphasizing the need for a dedicated disaster relief budget for the state. Echoing his concerns, BJD member Manas Ranjan Mangaraj criticized amendments regarding the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) allocations, fearing increased central control could lead to delays and infighting during emergencies.

While concerns centered on potential centralization and the lack of enforceable rights for disaster relief, proponents like Praful Patel of the NCP praised the bill as a modernization effort. Patel commended Home Minister Amit Shah for initiatives aimed at fortifying disaster preparedness at national and local levels.

(With inputs from agencies.)