Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 7 Aug: BJP State Media In-charge Manveer Singh Chauhan today stated that the recent rains have caused extensive damage across several districts of Uttarakhand, including Dharali. He emphasised that this is a time to wipe the tears of the victims rather than indulge in political rhetoric. In an informal chat with media persons at the BJP State Headquarters here, Chauhan urged the Congress party to stand in solidarity with those affected and share in their grief, rather than politicise the tragedy.
Criticising Congress President Karan Mahara’s remarks made today in respect of the Dharali incident as irresponsible, the BJP leader insisted that such statements demoralise both the victims and the personnel engaged in rescue operations. He stressed that instead of seeking political mileage from the calamity, there is a pressing need to offer constructive suggestions to enhance relief efforts and support the affected communities.
Chauhan observed that the entire state is mourning the devastation caused by the natural disaster in the Harsil valley in Uttarkashi. He noted that rescue operations are being carried out on a war footing, with all available forces working tirelessly to save lives. Despite severe damage to roads leading to the affected areas, the police, administration, Army, ITBP, NDRF, and SDRF are actively providing immediate relief and assistance to the victims.
Addressing the issue of rumours about the Chinook helicopter not being utilised in relief work, Chauhan said such misinformation is deeply unfortunate. He clarified that the Chinook is indeed being deployed to transport heavy disaster management equipment and has played a crucial role in the rescue of over 300 victims. He added that more than 400 individuals have been evacuated from the disaster-hit region, underscoring the scale and urgency of the ongoing operations.
Chauhan criticised the Congress party for engaging in theatrics during a time of crisis, referring to widely circulated videos of the Congress President removing stones from a road that had already been cleared by the administration en route to Uttarkashi. He asserted that such acts amount to mere propaganda and will not yield any political benefit. Rescue teams, he said, are working relentlessly day and night to reach those in need and save lives. Chauhan concluded by urging Congress to abandon insensitivity and fulfil its role as the opposition in a responsible and constructive manner.
