PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Bharatiya Janata Party said that the victims of the Uttarkashi flash floods in Dharali and nearby areas need support and relief instead of political statements. The party urged Congress to refrain from politicising the situation and stand with the affected people. The BJP’s State media in-charge Manveer Singh Chauhan criticised State Congress president Karan Mahara’s remarks, calling them irresponsible. He said that such statements affect the morale of rescue teams working on the ground. Chauhan added that rather than seeking political mileage, Congress should give constructive suggestions for relief efforts. He stated that rescue and relief operations continue in the Harsil valley despite damaged roads. Security forces, including police, ITBP, SDRF, NDRF and the army, are working to provide immediate assistance to those affected. Responding to claims that Chinook helicopters are not in use, Chauhan clarified that Chinooks are transporting heavy disaster management equipment and are part of the rescue efforts. He said that over 300 people have been rescued and more than 400 have been evacuated from the disaster-hit area. Chauhan also criticised Congress for circulating misleading videos and alleged that the party is trying to politicise a sensitive issue. He said that rescue teams are working day and night and that Congress should act as a responsible opposition.
