Public Outcry as Himachal CM Appeals for Donations Amidst Cloudburst Tragedy
Chief Minister's Call for Support
Munish Sood
Mandi:
In a heartfelt message, Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the public to generously contribute to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, which is dedicated to aiding those affected by the recent catastrophic cloudbursts in Mandi district. However, residents are expressing their frustration over the lack of contributions from local MLAs, ministers, and other political figures, who have yet to donate even a single day's salary.
Tragic Impact of Natural Disasters
Following a series of cloudbursts that occurred on the night of June 30 and July 1, the Mandi region has suffered greatly, with 15 fatalities reported and 27 individuals still unaccounted for. The aftermath has left over 150 roads blocked, disrupting power and water supplies and hindering relief efforts.
Public Discontent Over Political Inaction
As state and central agencies intensify their rescue operations, the lack of personal donations from elected officials has ignited a public outcry. Pankaj Gupta, a contractor from Kullu, voiced his disappointment, stating, “They claim to serve the public, yet not one has contributed a single day’s salary for those who elected them. This is not true leadership.” Residents from the hardest-hit areas, such as Manali and Thunag, share similar frustrations. Jai Singh, a farmer from Thunag, lamented, “Villages are devastated, families displaced, and food is scarce — yet no leader has stepped forward with support or financial aid. Even a small contribution could provide essentials like blankets or meals. They arrive in flashy vehicles but offer nothing.”
Community Efforts Highlight Political Apathy
Rajneesh Sharma, a travel agent from Manali, noted, “We have organized relief efforts from our own resources. What is stopping them?” Local volunteers have taken the initiative to provide ration kits, shelter, and essential supplies, making the silence from political leaders even more pronounced. Trader Lucky from Mandi encapsulated the public's frustration: “If they genuinely cared, the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund wouldn’t lack their names. Both Congress and BJP appear to be equally neglectful. This is not merely a political issue; it’s a collective failure. Congress ministers have not made any known personal contributions, while BJP MLAs criticize but remain inactive.”
Calls for Accountability and Action
While the Chief Minister's appeal encourages donations from all societal sectors, there is increasing pressure on political leaders to set an example. Citizens are demanding that all elected officials contribute at least a day’s salary, publicly disclose their donations, utilize party funds for relief efforts, and establish independent monitoring committees. Surinder Thakur, an insurance agent, emphasized, “These leaders are compensated with our taxes. If they cannot give back during a crisis, they do not deserve our votes.”