Kolkata, Oct 6 (PTI) The CPI(M) on Monday criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for participating in a Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata even as the sub-Himalayan districts of the state reeled under heavy rain, landslides and flooding that claimed several lives.

CPI(M) state secretary Mohammed Salim said Banerjee’s actions were "insensitive" and contrary to "Bengal’s culture and humanity".

"As the hills are crying and the state is suffering from floods, the chief minister is holding celebrations," Salim told reporters at the party’s state headquarters.

Salim criticised Banerjee for blaming the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) and other states for the floods in the state.

The chief minister, who announced Rs 5 lakh ex gratia to the kin of each of those who died in the calam

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