BJP postpones 'Jail Bharo Andolan' in Uttarakhand after floods

New Delhi, Jun 17: In view of heavy floods in Uttarakhand that left a trail of death and devastation in the hill state killing 37 people and injuring many, the BJP on Monday postponed its June 23 "Jail Bharo Andolan" in the state.

Expressing anguish and concern at the flood situation and the damage it has caused to life and property in Uttarakhand, BJP President Rajnath Singh directed the party's state unit to postpone its proposed agitation in the state. Singh also directed party workers and leaders in Uttarakhand to stand by the flood-affected persons and help them in this hour of crisis. "Those in power and the opposition should stand together in helping the flood victims," Singh said.

The BJP President said a party delegation will also be sent to the flood-affected areas in the state soon. To protest against "corrupt practices" of the UPA government at the Centre, BJP has proposed a "Jail Bharo Andolan" on June 23, where party workers across the country will court arrest. This andolan was earlier scheduled to take place on June 2 but was postponed due to the Naxalite violence in Chattisgarh.

Flashfloods in river Ganga and its tributaries, triggered by incessant rains in Uttarakhand on Monday left a trail of death and devastation across the state, killing 37 people, injuring 34 and damaging over 160 buildings. The Chardham and Mansarovar pilgrimages were also suspended following torrential rains.

PTI