From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Gujarat to Nagaland, whenever natural calamities like floods, earthquakes, or droughts have struck, Punjab has always been at the forefront of relief. History is witness that Punjabis, whether as individuals or through gurdwaras, NGOs, and community groups, have rushed to help their fellow countrymen. Be it sending food grains during famine, rushing medical aid during earthquakes, or offering shelter and langar during floods, the people of Punjab have never turned their backs on human suffering. The concept of Sarbat da Bhala—welfare of all—has remained the guiding principle behind such actions.
But today, when Punjab itself is reeling under the fury of floods, the picture appears grimly different. Vast stretches of farmland are submerged, houses have collapsed, families are displaced, and daily wage earners have lost their livelihoods. Entire districts are struggling with waterlogging, disease outbreaks, and financial ruin. Farmers who once sent grain to feed the nation are now helplessly watching their own fields being destroyed. The state, already grappling with economic stress, is under severe pressure to provide rehabilitation and relief.
In such a moment of dire need, the question naturally arises: has anyone come forward for Punjab? The same Punjab that never hesitated to serve others, that always rushed first to stand by fellow Indians during their crises, is now itself in distress. Yet, the response from the rest of the country feels muted and slow. Solidarity and empathy that Punjab has consistently shown to others seem to be missing when Punjabis themselves cry out for help.
This painful irony raises larger questions about the idea of national unity. If Punjab’s hand of help has always extended without condition, why is Punjab left feeling abandoned when the situation is reversed? True brotherhood is tested not when others suffer, but when we stand with them in their hour of greatest need. If the nation values Punjab’s sacrifices, contributions, and service, then now is the time to repay that debt—not with words, but with concrete relief, resources, and compassion.