Shimla: Jai Ram Thakur, the leader of the opposition, criticized the state government's handling of the relief package, emphasizing the need for the central government's assistance.
Addressing the media here today after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday, Jai Ram Thakur claims that the ruling government's 4500 crore rupees relief package has garnered praise, but such an effort would have been impossible without support from the central government.
He said that the Central Government has sanctioned 6500 houses which are under Rajiv Gandhi Awas Yojana. Due to this, people whose houses have been damaged in the disaster will get a lot of benefit under Rs 100 crore budget.
Under NDRF, Himachal Pradesh got Rs 364 crore and Rs 190 crore for the second time which is part of this package, Thakur said.
People have contributed Rs 225 crore to the disaster relief fund, which is part of this package. Himachal government has received an amount of Rs 403 crore under NDRF.
He said the government has received Rs 86 crore under the State Disaster Fund. This government is also using the MLA's development fund through this package. The state does not have a big contribution in this, he claimed.
But the Center provided as much help as it could. This package has been made from the same mixture. The contribution of more than Rs. 2 thousand crores under this relief package is clearly visible, the record of which is available with us, he said.
Thakur questioned the state government's claims regarding the relief package's sources, particularly highlighting the inclusion of 1000 crores meant for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), a domain under the central government's authority, not the state's.
He also pointed out that 6500 houses approved under the Rajiv Gandhi Awas Yojana, which is a significant part of the package, will substantially benefit those affected by the disaster.
Thakur accused the state government of playing politics with the relief package, suggesting that party interests might determine the distribution of aid.
He said the relief should reach those in need without political manipulation.
Thakur underscored the government's alleged failings over the last ten months, citing issues with the removal of over 10,000 employees who were employed during the COVID-19 crisis, unaddressed salary arrears for HRTC employees, and rising cement prices under the current administration.
He urged the Sukhu state government to shift focus from political maneuvering and concentrate on delivering relief to the people.
Thakur also charged that the ongoing controversy regarding unauthorized tent placements across the state during the disaster period, hint at potential irregularities worth millions that could come to light.
Jai Ram Thakur said the government must show transparency and accountability in its actions.