Political controversy erupts over air sorties in Uttarakhand

New Delhi, June 22: Massive political squabbles broke out on Saturday over air sorties in the flood-hit Uttarakhand. Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde objected to politicians' sorties in the state, saying only state Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna should be allowed air sorties.

Shinde's objection came just ahead of the proposed aerial survey of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi in the ravaged state, sparking off a controversy.

Modi conducted his survey in the flood-affected areas where flash floods claimed over 550 lives besides putting thousands others amid danger and uncertainty.

The BJP leader praised the people of Uttarakhand for helping the pilgrims stranded in the state because of the unprecedented natural disaster.

Modi reached Dehradun on Friday night and felt that the devastation caused in Uttarakhand was fit to be called a national tragedy.

After taking stock of the situation, Modi said food, medicine and rescue efforts were urgently required for those stranded in the state.

OneIndia News