BJP state media in-charge and MLA Randhir Sharma has accused Congress leaders of displaying narrow-mindedness and
indulging in low-level politics by failing to express gratitude for the announcements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Himachal Pradesh.
Sharma on Thursday said that it was unfortunate that despite receiving generous support, the chief minister and his cabinet members hesitated to openly thank the prime minister for the assistance for disaster suffered by the state, this monsoon season.
He added that the BJP strongly condemns such behaviour, which reflects the Congress leadership’s negative attitude.
He recalled that the prime minister’s visit to Himachal on September 9 was historic.
“Modi not only conducted an aerial survey of the flood-hit regions but also met the affected families and shared their grief. After reviewing the presentation given by the state government on the extent of damages, he announced a special financial package of Rs 1,500 crore for Himachal Pradesh,” he said.
Sharma further said that the Centre has also declared an ex gratia of Rs. 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and Rs 50,000 for the injured. In addition, houses that were washed away will be geo-tagged and beneficiaries compensated under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
Damaged school buildings will also be reconstructed with central assistance, he claimed, adding that the Prime Minister announced the release of SDRF funds and an early instalment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi for farmers and flood-affected people of the state. The BJP welcomes all these measures, he said.
Sharma maintained that the state government should have expressed gratitude and worked to bring in more central support under various schemes.
Instead, by refusing to acknowledge the Prime Minister’s contribution, Congress leaders have once again revealed their narrow approach and petty politics, he alleged.