Ruling NC, Cong seek relief package for flood-hit Jammu

Several political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have called for a substantial relief package for the Jammu region during Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to the flood-affected areas.

National Conference additional general secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra said that Shah’s visit has raised hopes in Jammu for the release of a tangible relief package to support those reeling under colossal damages caused by recent natural calamities.

“This is not the time for optics or symbolism. The people of Jammu are looking towards the highest echelons of power in the country for empathy, reassurance and immediate action. They deserve not just words but a concrete, liberal relief and rehabilitation package,” Sadhotra said.

Highlighting the widespread devastation, Sadhotra said that nature’s fury over the past few weeks has left behind a trail of destruction that is both heartbreaking and alarming. “Several areas have been washed away, houses reduced to rubble and agricultural fields destroyed. The loss of infrastructure, roads, bridges and public utilities has further worsened the crisis, cutting off people from essential supplies and services,” he said.

The Congress party also demanded a well-funded relief and rehabilitation package from the Home Minister. J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra stated, “As the Home Minister visits Jammu to evaluate the catastrophic losses suffered by our people, the Indian National Congress unequivocally demands an immediate, comprehensive, and well-funded relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction package to support the affected communities and help rebuild their lives with dignity.”

Karra further called for the establishment of an independent, high-level inquiry to thoroughly investigate systemic lapses and negligence that led to the “heart-wrenching tragedies” at Vaishno Devi and Chositi. “These disasters have shaken the nation, and accountability must be ensured to deliver justice to the victims and their families. The government must act swiftly to implement robust preventive measures to safeguard lives and prevent such devastating incidents in the future,” he said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) J&K unit chief Manish Sahni also demanded a “proper relief package” from Amit Shah. Sahni emphasised that the Jammu division has suffered heavy economic damage due to the catastrophic rains, landslides and cloudbursts in recent days. “The Home Minister should announce a proper relief package during his visit,” he said.