Himachal Assembly: Oppn seeks discussion on calamities on opening day of Monsoon Session

On the opening day of the 12-day Monsoon Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, the Opposition BJP sought a discussion on natural calamities, setting aside the day's business and granting sufficient time for a detailed discussion on the losses, including deaths, devastation, and relief measures undertaken by the government.

- ASHWANI SHARMA

SHIMLA:

The motion for deferring the House's business to discuss an important issue was opposed by the ruling party, which had also tabled a motion under a different rule to draw the attention of the House to the situation arising out of the recent (even ongoing) natural calamities in the state.

Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur, however, pointed out that his constituency, Seraj, has particularly suffered massive destruction due to cloud bursts, flash floods, and torrential rains, even as other parts of the state are experiencing human and property losses.

"There is an urgent need to discuss the situation and ensure that relief and rehabilitation measures are stepped up," he said.

Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania later allowed the discussion on the issue under Rule 67, asking the members to participate in the debate.