Congress Demands Relief Package for Flood-hit North Indian States

New Delhi, Sep 2 (PTI) – The Congress party has called on the Central government to allocate additional financial resources to states in North India severely affected by floods. A special relief package is being urged for Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. The recommendation comes from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who emphasized the importance of setting aside political differences during times of natural disaster.

Kharge highlighted that the floods have impacted over 2.5 lakh individuals in Punjab, with several casualties reported. "My heartfelt condolences go to the families affected," he expressed, adding that he has coordinated with senior Congress members in Punjab. The Congress party is ready to offer any necessary assistance and support.

He stressed the need for the Central and state governments to enhance their efforts in relief, rehabilitation, and providing prompt medical assistance. Kharge asserted that the Central government must allocate more funds to the flood-stricken states in the region.

A dedicated relief package tailored to the specific needs of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Haryana is required without delay, according to the Congress leader. "Natural disasters should not be politicized," he remarked. He further suggested utilizing PM CARES funds for compensating those affected by floods across the impacted regions.

The devastating floods have claimed lives across multiple states. Seven individuals died due to landslides in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, while Punjab faced further disruption from another bout of heavy rain leading to school closures. Concurrently, in Jammu and Kashmir, heavy rainfall in Katra has prolonged the suspension of the pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. This comes after a landslide on a pilgrimage route resulted in 34 fatalities last Tuesday.

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