Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Congress in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Rajni Patil has accused the Modi government of neglecting the state’s rightful claims for disaster relief. Raising the issue in the Rajya Sabha on Friday, Patil criticized the Center for its alleged discrimination against Himachal Pradesh despite the extensive loss of life and infrastructure during the 2023 monsoon disaster.
Patil pointed out that the natural calamity claimed over 500 lives and caused damage worth thousands of crores. She alleged that despite the state’s Congress government seeking Rs 10,000 crore in relief, the Center sanctioned only Rs 400 crore, which she termed as blatant discrimination against the hill state.
“The state has suffered immensely due to the monsoon disaster, and the Central Government must fulfill its responsibility by compensating for the losses. Disaster relief should not be politicized,” Patil asserted while demanding the release of the remaining amount.
The Congress leader highlighted that Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has repeatedly raised the issue with the Center, emphasizing the state’s dire need for financial assistance. She also drew attention to similar demands for compensation in Wayanad and other disaster-affected states.
Patil further criticized the functioning of the Home Ministry and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), questioning their approach toward disaster relief allocation. She urged the government to adopt a fair and transparent mechanism for providing financial aid to states affected by natural calamities.
Her remarks have reignited the debate over the Center’s alleged bias in disaster compensation, with the Congress party accusing the Modi government of neglecting opposition-ruled states. The demand for a more substantial relief package continues as Himachal Pradesh struggles to recover from the devastating 2023 monsoon tragedy.
