‘CM Sukhu unreachable’: Leader of Opposition Jai Ram slams him over ‘poor’ disaster response in HP’s Mandi

Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur today criticised the Himachal Pradesh Government and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here over what he termed as an “insensitive and apathetic" response to the recent rain-triggered devastation in Mandi district.

Addressing a press conference here today, Jai Ram Thakur expressed dissatisfaction with Chief Minister Sukhu’s recent remarks in Solan that Jai Ram Thakur should visit his Assembly constituency instead of making political statements. Responding firmly, Jai Ram said, “I do not need the Chief Minister’s advice. He should instead focus on ensuring timely relief and rescue efforts in the disaster-affected areas of the state.”

Calling the Chief Minister “insensitive”, the former CM alleged that he had been trying to reach out to Sukhu since morning regarding the ongoing crisis but received no response. “Even during such a serious disaster, the CM remains unreachable. His government has been completely exposed by its inaction and lack of preparedness,” said Jai Ram Thakur.

Seraj among the worst-hit areas

Thakur, who represents the Seraj Assembly constituency, said the pre-monsoon heavy rainfall on June 30 caused unprecedented damage across Mandi district, particularly in Seraj, Nachan, Karsog and Sadar. “Normally, such disasters occur mid-monsoon, but this time, they struck earlier, leaving Seraj 25 years behind in terms of development," he said.

He said over 30 persons were missing from Seraj, while 7 were missing from the neighbouring Nachan constituency.

Several villages such as Janjehli, Thachi, Kuklah, Thunag, Bhakhrait and Parvara have been severely affected. “More than 500 houses have been damaged in Seraj alone. In Dharampur, 30 houses have been destroyed. This is irreparable damage,” he said.

Apple orchards and infrastructure severely damaged

Thakur highlighted the extensive destruction of apple orchards, which serve as the primary source of livelihood for many residents. In addition to agricultural losses, vital infrastructure has also taken a hit. The bridge connecting Kuklah village has been damaged, and the Thunag bridge is also in a precarious state. Water supply schemes in the region have collapsed, worsening the humanitarian crisis.

“The restoration of road connectivity, electricity, water supply and communication facilities should be the top priority of the state government. The affected families are still waiting for tents and basic relief material,” Thakur added.

Appeal for swift action and centre’s support

Jai Ram Thakur urged the Chief Minister to intensify relief and rescue operations, particularly in the Seraj region, and requested the deployment of chopper services to reach remote and cut-off villages. He thanked the central government for its prompt support, including the immediate deployment of helicopters. He said recently, the central government gave a financial grant of Rs 206 crore under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to the state, which should be used to give immediate relief to affected families.

Despite this central aid, Thakur accused the state government of negligence. “The state has not even procured the necessary materials. It is becoming increasingly difficult to ensure ration supply to affected families,” he stated.

He concluded by demanding that the state government should increase manpower and machinery in the affected areas to speed up the restoration of basic services and provide urgent relief to the distressed population.

Himachal Tribune