India, Aug. 11 -- The devastating floods that have ravaged Assam this year have once again exposed the state's chronic vulnerability to one of nature's most powerful forces. But this time, the scale and nature of the destruction have raised uncomfortable questions that go beyond extreme rainfall and overflowing rivers. Entire settlements have been obliterated, thousands displaced, livestock lost and livelihoods built over generations wiped out within hours. While relief and rehabilitation remain the immediate priority, the disaster must also become a moment of introspection. Was this catastrophe solely the result of nature's fury, or did years of ecological neglect and governance failures magnify its impact?

Among the worst-affected was ...