CM, Dy CM’s visits yield no relief announcement: Sahni
JAMMU, Nov 3: The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Jammu and Kashmir unit has strongly criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government for failing to announce a relief package for traders affected by the devastating fire at Shiv Market, near Jammu Railway Station, despite more than a week having passed since the incident on the intervening night of October 25–26 and visits by the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister. The party has demanded an immediate, adequate and time-bound financial relief package for the affected traders.
Addressing a press conference at the party’s Pradesh Madhya Varti Office, State President Manish Sahni said that while the visits of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Deputy Chief Minister to the affected site were welcome, VIP visits and verbal assurances alone cannot rebuild the businesses destroyed in the fire. Traders who have lost their shops and life savings are anxiously waiting for concrete financial assistance. The government must move beyond assurances and demonstrate its commitment through immediate action on the ground.
Sahni pointed out that with the Chief Minister, ministers and senior administrative officials currently stationed in Jammu due to the Darbar Move, there is no justification for further delay in extending relief to the victims.
In view of the estimated losses of nearly Rs 70 crore, he demanded an immediate and transparent assessment of damages, adequate compensation to affected shopkeepers, interest-free loans for business revival and expedited settlement of insurance claims.
He urged the government to announce a special relief package before Diwali so that affected traders can restart their businesses and safeguard the livelihoods of their families and employees.