Munish Sood
MANDI: Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) state spokesperson Chandan Pandit has launched a scathing attack on Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, accusing him of making politically motivated and insensitive remarks amid the ongoing natural disaster in Mandi district’s Seraj constituency.
Addressing reporters in Mandi, Pandit said, “Minister Jagat Singh Negi is playing politics even during a humanitarian crisis. His statement, ‘Only when a stone pricks the shoe, one feels the pain,’ is not only callous but a direct insult to the suffering people of Seraj.”
The region has been severely affected by heavy rainfall, landslides and significant loss of life and property over the past few days. Relief and rehabilitation efforts are underway, with local communities and officials working around the clock to restore normalcy.
Pandit criticised Minister Negi for targeting former Chief Minister and current Seraj MLA Jai Ram Thakur, who, he said, was among the first leaders to physically visit the disaster-hit areas. “Jai Ram Thakur reached the ground within hours of receiving the first reports. He walked to remote villages, assessed the damage and coordinated between the public and the administration. His conduct stands in stark contrast to ministers who are issuing statements from conference halls rather than showing up where help is needed,” Pandit remarked.
He further alleged that Negi’s remarks were a clear attempt to politicise a tragedy that required sensitivity and unity. “The people of Himachal Pradesh do not expect sarcasm from those in power. They expect leadership, empathy, and action. Ministers who fail to understand this have no moral right to remain in office,” he added.
The BJYM also called upon Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to intervene and counsel his cabinet colleagues on maintaining restraint and focusing on responsible governance during times of crisis. Pandit stated that inappropriate public comments from senior ministers only widen the disconnect between the government and affected citizens.
“The youth wing of the BJP stands firmly with all families impacted by this disaster. Our teams are on the ground, providing support, and we remain committed to assisting in every possible way,” Pandit said. He concluded by stating, “This is not a time for politics. This is a time for service, accountability, and compassion.”
The remarks have added to the growing political tension in the state, as the disaster continues to test the preparedness and response of the Himachal Pradesh government.
