In a late-night announcement on Friday, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari revealed the state government’s readiness to dispatch a high-level team to Nepal—but only with the green light from India’s Ministry of External Affairs. The move comes as families cling to hope amid devastating flash floods that have left dozens from the state missing.

Key facts

  • 39 people from West Bengal reported missing in Nepal flash floods
  • State government has contacted two: Anukul Poddar and his wife, both over 60, from Basirhat
  • 37 people still untraced as of August 28, 2026
  • Delegation plan includes one minister, one MLA, an IG-rank police officer, and a senior IAS officer

Families Await News

Adhikari held a video call with anxious families from the state police headquarters, Bhawani Bhawan, late Friday, surrounded by senior officers. He assured them of every effort to locate their loved ones. Many had embarked on the sacred Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra through Kolkata-based agency “Cholo Jai”; 30 were tourists, including 21 senior citizens, plus two tour operators.

Political and Personal Strains

Among the missing is Sharmistha Bhowmik Roy, daughter-in-law of late Trinamool Congress founder Mukul Roy. Her husband, Subhrangshu Roy, expressed how families have bonded in shared uncertainty. “We have now become like one family,” he told reporters, a sentiment echoing through dozens of households holding their breath.

“I have asked the Chief Secretary to seek permission from the MEA to send our delegation to Nepal, which will include one Minister, one MLA, one IG-rank police officer, and a senior IAS officer of secretary or joint secretary level. Once we get permission, we will move them to Kathmandu.”

Adhikari’s words carry both promise and caution—a delegation poised, but bound by diplomatic protocol. Hopes also lean on unverified reports that some may have been rescued on the Tibet side; authorities are scrambling to verify.

Waiting on a Signal

For now, the plan hangs on one call to New Delhi. Until then, West Bengal watches, waits, and prepares—ready to step in the moment permission arrives.