Sadhotra Slams BJP, Demands Liberal Flood Relief Package During Amit Shah’s Visit

SRINAGAR: National Conference (NC) Additional General Secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra has called on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to use Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s ongoing visit to Jammu to secure a liberal financial relief package for flood-affected families in the region.

During his visit to several flood-hit areas including Gurha Brahmna Ban Talab, Ganga Nagar, Machine Domana, and Domana, Sadhotra criticised the BJP for what he described as its “silence and absence” in the face of recent natural calamities like flash floods, landslides, and cloudbursts.

“People of Jammu gave the BJP a massive mandate in 2024, and in return, they have received neglect and betrayal,” Sadhotra said. “Now, at the very least, the BJP must show some sympathy and demand a generous relief package from the Union Government.”

He accused the BJP of engaging in “hollow rhetoric” and failing to act when it came to real support for victims, alleging that leaders only issue statements from “comfortable drawing rooms” without pressing the Centre for compensation, rehabilitation, or preventive infrastructure.

Sadhotra called for an immediate damage assessment and adequate compensation for families who have lost homes, belongings, livestock, standing crops, and sources of livelihood. He emphasised the need for long-term preventive measures to safeguard against future disasters.

The NC leader also praised former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for “standing firmly with the people” and said the current NC leadership would continue to support the victims “shoulder to shoulder.”

He warned that if the BJP fails to act now, the “wrath of betrayed voters” will be evident in the next elections.

“Jammu doesn’t need photo-ops; it needs action,” Sadhotra said, adding that the BJP’s “arrogance, non-performance and insensitivity” had been exposed.

Sadhotra was accompanied by several NC leaders and functionaries, including Raghubir Singh Manhas, Ch Bagh Ali, Ranjeet Singh, Faquir Chand, Dr Tony, Rakesh Kumar Sharma, Randhir Singh, and others.