Jairam Thakur Slams Govt Over Mandi Cloudburst Response

Shimla, July 29, 2025: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, Jairam Thakur, has slammed the Himachal Pradesh government for its slow and inadequate response to the recent cloudburst in Mandi’s Jail Road area. Visiting the disaster site on Monday morning, Thakur expressed deep concern over the massive destruction caused, stating that over 50 vehicles are feared buried under debris, three lives have been lost, and several others injured.

He accused the government of focusing on hollow announcements instead of taking tangible steps for relief and rehabilitation. “This is a time for accountability, not politics,” he asserted. Thakur said that despite central government support exceeding ₹5,000 crore since 2023, affected families have yet to receive adequate relief.

Thakur also criticized the delay in state ministers visiting affected regions, adding that even basic relief measures are being stalled for photo-op visits by ministers. He urged the government to act transparently and swiftly.

Highlighting the double standards of the government, he questioned FIRs against peaceful protestors in Saraj and demanded action against Congress leaders making inflammatory statements. He concluded by saying this is not a time for political games, but for healing the wounds of the suffering people.