MP urges transparency in aid utilisation

Former BJP state president and Member of Parliament Suresh Kashyap said the Central Government has stood firmly with Himachal Pradesh in the wake of recent disasters, extending unprecedented support of over Rs 10,000 crore. He urged the Congress government in the state to ensure that this assistance is used transparently and without favouritism.

Addressing a press conference here today, Kashyap said Rs 5,125 crore had already been transferred under various heads, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Dharamsala, announced an additional Rs 1,500 crore. “Together, Himachal has received Rs. 6,625 crore exclusively for disaster relief,” he noted. In addition, he pointed to a Rs. 3,000 crore World Bank-funded research institute approved for the state to study the causes of recurring natural calamities.

Kashyap highlighted that one lakh houses have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, with instructions to speed up construction. Alongside, highway projects worth over Rs 1 lakh crore, including BRO and four-lane projects, are underway. “The Centre has ensured that Himachal faces no shortage of support,” he said.

He added that BJP-ruled states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Tripura and Assam have each contributed Rs 5 crore, while over 50 truckloads of relief material have also been sent.

Referring to losses in the education sector, Kashyap said 559 schools were damaged, with losses estimated at Rs 31.38 crore. “Funds of Rs 16 crore have been released for 109 schools, but not a single rupee has been spent yet,” he alleged, urging the government to account for the aid and spend it honestly for the welfare of affected people.