CM inaccessible, insensitive to crisis: Thakur

Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur today accused Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, of being accessible and “insensitive and apathetic” to the rain-triggered devastation in Mandi district.

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Thakur, while addressing mediapersons here, expressed frustration over the state government’s slow response to the crisis, particularly in Seraj.

Thakur, while reacting to Sukhu’s recent remarks in Solan, said, “I do not need the Chief Minister’s advice. He should focus on ensuring timely relief and rescue in disaster-hit areas.” He claimed that repeated attempts to contact the Chief Minister had been unsuccessful. He alleged there was a complete breakdown in governance during the present crisis.

He said that over 30 persons had gone missing in Seraj alone, including seven from Nachan. Janjehli, Thachi, Thunag, Kuklah and Parvara villages had suffered massive losses. Over 500 houses and apple orchards, which are key to the region’s economy, had been damaged.

Thakur said, “The affected families are still waiting for tents and ration. The state is unprepared.” He thanked the Central Government for the Rs 206 crore grant under the NDRF and immediate helicopter deployment. He urged the state government to use the funds for providing direct relief.