GUWAHATI: The Assam government is monitoring around 72 YouTube accounts across the country that allegedly collected money from the public in the name of flood relief, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Wednesday, August 12.
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Addressing a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Dispur, CM Sarma said the government has identified 72 accounts that collected funds during the recent floods and is keeping track of how the money was utilised.
“We must also monitor those who collected funds but have not deposited or distributed them for flood relief. So far, we have identified 72 accounts that collected money during the floods,” Sarma said.
The Chief Minister said some YouTubers from outside Assam had also raised funds, and the government would verify whether the money actually reached flood-affected areas, including Sivasagar and Charaideo.
At the same time, the Assam government acknowledged the efforts of individuals and content creators who have used the funds they raised for genuine relief work.
“For those who have utilised the raised funds properly, the Assam Government commends them and will also issue official letters of appreciation,” Sarma said.
Sarma said the government would also seek details from those who claimed to have spent large amounts on flood relief.
“Some claimed to have given ₹2 crore or ₹50 lakh. We will ask them directly where and how much they actually spent,” the Chief Minister said.
According to Sarma, the exercise is also aimed at preventing duplication of relief efforts. He said the government needs to know where privately raised funds have been spent so that resources are not repeatedly directed to the same areas while other affected regions remain underserved.
“We need to maintain oversight to prevent such overlap,” Sarma added.
The government’s monitoring comes amid increased fundraising efforts by individuals and social media creators during the flood situation, with authorities seeking greater clarity on the collection and utilisation of such funds.
