Himachal CM Criticizes BJP Leaders Over Lack of Support for Disaster Victims

Quick Summary

• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu criticized BJP leaders for confining their activities to social media platforms and not providing tangible assistance to disaster-affected residents.
• Mr. Sukhu highlighted Congress leaders’ efforts in engaging with affected communities and supporting them using limited State government resources.
• The CM stated that no support had been received from the BJP-led Central government despite requests for assistance.
• He urged the Center to approve one bigha of forest land per affected family and provide a special relief package. Approval is necessary as 68% of Himachal Pradesh’s land is categorized as forest land, making autonomous allotments by the State unfeasible without federal consent.
• The State government has prepared a ₹3,000 crore project seeking World Bank assistance for disaster management and rehabilitation efforts.
• Heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread devastation in Himachal Pradesh this year, resulting in significant loss of lives and property. Further rainfall recently exacerbated damage across various parts of the State.
• Army Chinook and MI-17 helicopters were deployed by authorities to rescue devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra in Chamba district.

Image Caption: In this image posted on Sept. 5, 2025, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visits disaster-hit areas in Manali | PTI Image.

indian Opinion analysis

The extensive monsoon-related damages reported from Himachal Pradesh highlight ongoing vulnerabilities faced by States reliant on fragile mountain ecosystems amidst increasingly extreme weather events.Chief Minister Sukhu’s call for central aid reflects longstanding intergovernmental challenges regarding resource allotment-especially critical when large tracts of essential land fall under strict usage regulations due to environmental protections like those governing forest zones.While preparing strategic projects worth ₹3,000 crore suggests proactive planning at the local level (including efforts towards securing World Bank funding),enduring solutions will likely require deeper collaboration between all tiers of governance. Immediate federal action could strengthen short-term recovery measures but must align with long-term strategies tackling climate resilience-a regional necessity given recurring natural disasters.

The deployment of military helicopters signals responsive administration amid logistical challenges posed by rugged terrain during emergencies like religious pilgrimages.However, broader disaster preparedness frameworks may benefit from inclusionary discussions about improving infrastructural safeguards instead of relying largely on reactive measures after calamities strike.

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