STATE TIMES NEWS
AKHNOOR: Former Deputy Chief Minister and Working President, Tara Chand demanded the immediate release of relief-both in cash and kind-for families affected by the recent flash floods in Jammu.
Speaking at a joint monthly meeting of the Block Congress Committee Bhalwal Brahmana and Block Congress Committee Akhnoor held at Dhok Khalsa of Akhnoor Constituency, Tara Chand criticized the government’s slow response. He said that while governments are meant to support citizens during crises, the current administration’s approach to assessing losses appears to be mere formality. He added that assessment teams are visiting accessible areas along main roads, while the worst-affected regions remain unreachable due to washed-away roads.
Tara Chand also demanded that free ration be immediately distributed among the affected families, noting that many are now penniless and that their crops and agricultural fields have been destroyed by floods. He emphasized that administrative negligence has deepened public discontent, and urgent action is required to prevent further suffering.
During his address, Tara Chand highlighted developmental work carried out during his tenure and recalled the significant relief and rehabilitation efforts undertaken during the pre-2014 floods. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir still remember the proactive support provided during those challenging times. He further criticized the current administration for rising inflation, lack of development, and apathy toward public welfare, urging the Union Territory government to provide immediate compensation and ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Tara Chand also directed Congress party colleagues to fan out into their respective blocks and Mohallas to interact with every household and properly assess the ground realities. He stressed that citizens are facing extreme hardships and there is an urgent need for assistance.
Prominent Congress leaders present at the meeting included Capt. Kali Dass (Block President), Pt. Som Parkash (Incharge), Rashpaul Singh, Suraj Singh, Anil Manhas (Block President), K.K. Bhagat, Bodh Raj Sharma, Puran Singh Manhas, Ex. Sarpanch Raj Kumar, Capt. Mohan Lal, Ex. Sarpanch Om Prakash, RTD Isp. Tara Chand, Hans Raj, Kamal Sharma, Tarsem Bhagat, Rohit, Vipan Lachotra (PYC), Suraj Verma, Issar Dass, Capt. Romesh Kumar, and others.
Tara Chand concluded by reiterating that Congress stands firmly with the people and will continue to raise their concerns at every platform until relief and justice are delivered to those affected by the floods.