LOP slams J&K Govt over flood response, lauds Centre’s support

Srinagar, Aug 31: Leader of Opposition (LOP) Sunil Sharma on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government, accusing it of failing to respond adequately to the devastation caused by recent floods and landslides in Jammu.

“The J&K government has demonstrated a lack of seriousness and an inability to find effective solutions,” Sharma said. “For over two weeks, heavy rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods have ravaged Jammu, resulting in loss of lives, livestock, and homes. Yet, the government has failed to restore basic services, including electricity, water supply, and road connectivity, even after five days.”

Sharma highlighted the severity of the situation in areas like Chisoti, Vaishno Devi Ardhkuwari, Reasi, Mahore, and Rajgarh in Ramban, where lives have been lost and families left without shelter.

“The government needs to be proactive and work with urgency,” he said.

Sharma praised the Centre’s response, noting that Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu was a testament to the Prime Minister’s commitment to supporting the affected regions.

“Whenever disaster has struck, the Government of India, particularly Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has extended generous support to J&K. The Modi government will help in the restoration and rehabilitation of affected areas by providing manpower, machinery, and a financial package. Unfortunately, the J&K government has not matched this level of commitment,” he said.

Sharma also criticised the compensation package, stating that the existing relief under the SDRF and CM's Relief Fund was woefully inadequate.

“A mere Rs 1.35 lakh for a fully damaged house is insufficient to even lay a foundation. The J&K government must come forward with a substantial package to ensure rehabilitation. The meagre amounts announced so far offer no real relief to the affected communities,” he said.