Opposition condemns CM Sukhu’s absence, demands deferment of session

Accusing the government of being non-serious on the issue of relief and restoration in the wake of havoc wreaked by rains, opposition BJP today demanded deferment of the Assembly session.

Opposition legislators from Chamba, Hans Raj, Janak Raj and DS Thakur, expressed concern over the absence of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu from the state at a time when large-scale damage had been caused to both private and public property. “When the situation in the state is so critical in view of the rain damages, the CM should have been here rather than attending political function in Bihar,” said Leader of Opposition (LoP) Jai Ram Thakur.

Responding to the concerns of the opposition, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said opposition is trying to create an impression that the government is not doing anything. “Like you all, we too are equally concerned about the situation but do not try to give it a political tinge. The LoP is trying to give the issue a political colour though the entire government is working overtime to ensure that relief and restoration work is in full swing,” he said.

Agnihotri said the entire state has been affected with Chamba being the worst hit in the last three days. The Chief Secretary is in constant touch with the DC and monitoring the situation round the clock, he said. The Pathankot-Chamba road has been opened at 1 am last night and 3,000 people have been rescued from the Manimahesh route.

Deputy Chief Minister informed the House that one helicopter has been requisitioned for Lahaul Spiti and four for Chamba. “As and when there is a window subject to weather conditions, evacuation of the stranded people will be undertaken,” he said.

Enraged at accusations made by the Deputy CM of politicising the issue, the entire opposition was on its feet, raising sloganeering. Finally, the Speaker adjourned the house amidst pandemonium.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) Jai Ram Thakur said initially Mandi was worst affected but as monsoons progressed, damage has spread to other parts. “Chamba has been hit very badly, especially when Manimahesh Yatra was on. The most serious aspect is that there is no contact as all communication has snapped in Chamba,” he said. The road beyond Pandoh in Mandi has been damaged and people, including tourists, are stranded at various locations.

Thakur said by now helicopter services should have been requisitioned to evacuate people and get ration dropped to people. “At such a time the CM should have been here when disaster has struck Himachal. It is ironical that he is busy attending a political programme in Bihar when the state is passing through a critical phase,” Thakur said.