BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Addresses Absence from Mandi Cloudburst Areas Following Jai Ram Thakur's Advice

The Congress party criticised the BJP on Friday, targeting Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut's decision to avoid visiting cloudburst-hit areas in Mandi. She claimed she was advised by Jai Ram Thakur, a BJP leader, to wait until connectivity improved. The Congress noted that Thakur, the opposition leader in Himachal Pradesh, seemed upset. Tragically, 43 people died in the state due to natural disasters.

In Mandi district alone, 17 people lost their lives due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides. On Tuesday, the district experienced 10 such incidents. Ranaut expressed her sorrow over the recurring flood devastation in Himachal Pradesh through a post on X. She mentioned her attempt to visit affected areas like Seraj but was advised to delay her visit until access was restored.

Flood Impact and Political Reactions

Ranaut stated that a red alert had been issued by the Mandi District Commissioner and she was waiting for official approval to visit. She assured that she would reach the affected areas as soon as possible. In another post, she confirmed her journey to Himachal Pradesh and pledged her support to the state during this crisis.

Her comments followed remarks by Thakur, who avoided questions about Ranaut's absence from the disaster-stricken region. He emphasised his concern for local residents, stating, "We are concerned about the locals, and we live and die for them. Cannot comment on those who are not."

Political Tensions Amidst Calamity

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu responded by urging Ranaut to communicate with Thakur. Sukhu noted that Thakur appeared agitated. On Thursday, Thakur held a press conference in Mandi where he expressed regret over the destruction of two decades' worth of development in his Seraj constituency due to the calamity.

Thakur highlighted the severe damage suffered by Nachan, Karsog, Drang, Dharampur, Mandi constituencies and nearby areas. He called on the government to prioritise relief efforts and restoration work urgently.

The ongoing political exchanges underscore the challenges faced by Himachal Pradesh amid natural disasters. The focus remains on recovery efforts and ensuring safety for affected communities.

With inputs from PTI