'Assam floods triggered by 400–500 per cent excess rainfall,' says BJP MLA Manab Deka

Assam BJP MLA Manab Deka on Monday, July 27 said the unprecedented flooding witnessed in parts of Assam this year was primarily the result of exceptionally high rainfall, while also expressing support for the Centre's initiatives on examination reforms and stricter measures against malpractice in public examinations.

Speaking on the flood situation in Assam, Deka described the loss of lives and property as tragic, noting that several of the affected areas are traditionally considered flood-safe due to their elevated terrain. He said the region received rainfall that was around 400 to 500 per cent above normal levels, resulting in unexpected flooding.

"The area affected by the flood is typically not prone to flooding as it is situated on high ground. This time, rainfall was 400 to 500 per cent above normal, leading to unprecedented flooding. Many people lost their lives, and we are all deeply saddened," he said.

Deka also welcomed the public response to the disaster, stating that people across Assam had come together to support those affected by the floods.

Commenting on the controversy surrounding Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's remarks over the participation of Agriculture Minister Keshab Mahanta's daughter in a student protest, Deka said democratic systems guarantee the right to protest but emphasised that such demonstrations should maintain decorum.

He condemned the language allegedly used against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the protest, stating that such expressions were unacceptable. Deka further remarked that the language used reflected poorly on the individual's upbringing and suggested that counselling might be appropriate.

On the Centre's decision to constitute a high-powered task force on examination reforms under Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, Deka expressed confidence that the panel would deliver meaningful reforms. He described Nilekani as a distinguished reformer with significant contributions to science, technology and digital governance, including initiatives such as Aadhaar and digital payment systems.

Deka also welcomed the proposed amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, saying that stricter penal provisions would act as an effective deterrent against examination-related malpractices. He said stronger legal measures were necessary to curb such offences and improve the integrity of the country's examination system.