Kolkata experienced unprecedented rainfalls overnight, leading to severe waterlog in several parts of city. Streets was submerged, causing major disruptions in traffic, rail services, and flight operations. Tragically, at least seven people lost their life due to electrocution during the deluge. The timing of rain, coinciding with Durga Puja festivities, add to the chaos, as pandals and public spaces was inundated, affecting celebrations.

In the aftermath, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took to social media to criticise the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-run Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) for its failure to manage city drainage system. The BJP accuse the TMC of corruption and mismanagement, alleging that years of neglect has led to the current crisis. They shared videos of submerged streets and pandals, highlighting civic failings.

In response, the TMC accused the BJP of politicising the tragedy to spread hates. They argued that the BJP was using people suffering during religious festival to further its own agenda. The TMC also pointed to scientific data, suggesting that rainfall was unprecedented and beyond city capacity to handle.

The war of words between two parties intensify, with each side blaming other for city’s plight. This situation highlighted deep political rift in West Bengal and challenges faces by urban centres in managing extreme weather events.

As city grapple with aftermath, questions remain about preparedness of municipal bodies to handle such crisis and role of political parties in addressing civic issues. The debate shows how natural disasters often becomes politicised in Indian cities, creating additional stress for citizens already affected by flooding.