Himachal disaster should be declared national calamity, demands BKU

In the wake of the recent natural disaster that has caused massive destruction to farmers, the public, and infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) has appealed to all state legislators to leave the ongoing Assembly session and reach Delhi to press the Centre to declare the calamity in Himachal as a national disaster.

The union has also demanded a special relief package of Rs 20,000 crore for affected farmers and the general public.

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BKU, Himachal Unit, president Aninder Singh Pandher said that fruit crops, especially apples and other cash crops, in various areas have either been completely destroyed or are unable to reach markets due to the collapse of road networks across several districts.

“This is the time for leaders to rise above party politics and demonstrate solidarity and commitment to the people of Himachal,” he said.

The people of the state also expect that all Members of Parliament from Himachal will raise their voice in Delhi to secure the relief package, he added.

The Union further urged that all MLAs and MPs donate their two months’ salary to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

The BKU has also called upon the Industries Minister to ensure that industries in the state deposit this year’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds directly into the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and not spend any amount outside the state.

“The government, if required, can bring in an ordinance for this purpose,” he said, adding that according to BKU estimates, this alone could contribute Rs 5,000 crore to the relief fund.

BKU leader Rakesh Tikait will accompany the legislators to Delhi, he informed, adding that if the Centre rejects the demands, all MLAs should stage a protest at Jantar Mantar instead of Himachal Bhawan.

The BKU has assured that it will organize a community kitchen (langar) at the protest site for the legislators.

Aninder Singh Pandher said that the Union had warned that the public is closely watching the conduct of their representatives.
If they fail to act, the BKU will stage protests outside their homes and offices, he added.