JAMMU, Jul 20: Senior social and public affairs commentator Col RK Sharma on Monday welcomed Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s announcement of an ex gratia relief of Rs 6 lakh for the next of kin of each person who lost their lives in the recent rain-related incidents in Rajouri and Poonch districts, describing the decision as a compassionate and timely step towards supporting families devastated by the tragedy.
Expressing profound grief over the tragic loss of lives caused by flash floods, landslides and other rain-induced incidents, Sharma said the calamity has left an indelible scar on the affected families and communities, while also serving as a reminder of the growing vulnerability of hilly regions to extreme weather events.He said that although no financial assistance can ever compensate for the irreplaceable loss of a loved one, the government’s prompt decision to extend immediate relief demonstrates its commitment to standing by the bereaved families during one of the most difficult phases of their lives.
“While no amount of financial assistance can ever compensate for the irreparable loss of life caused by the flash floods, landslides and other rain-related incidents in Poonch and Rajouri, the announcement of an ex gratia relief of Rs 6 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased as an immediate measure of support is a welcome and humane step,” Sharma said.He noted that the relief package comprises Rs 4 lakh from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and an additional Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), reflecting the government’s intent to provide immediate financial assistance to the affected families.
Sharma observed that in times of natural calamities, prompt governmental intervention not only provides financial support but also instills confidence among citizens that they are not alone in their hour of grief. He said compassionate governance is reflected in the speed and sensitivity with which relief measures are announced and implemented.
At the same time, he urged the administration to ensure that the sanctioned relief reaches the beneficiaries without procedural delays, while simultaneously accelerating damage assessment and rehabilitation efforts for families whose homes, agricultural land, livestock and other means of livelihood have been severely affected.
He stressed that relief should not end with financial compensation alone but should be complemented by comprehensive rehabilitation measures, restoration of damaged infrastructure, uninterrupted supply of essential services and psychological support wherever required.Referring to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, Sharma called for strengthening disaster preparedness across the Union Territory, particularly in vulnerable hilly districts. He emphasized the need for improved early warning systems, better coordination among disaster response agencies, pre-positioning of rescue teams, and continuous public awareness to minimize the impact of future natural calamities.
He also appreciated the efforts of the district administration, disaster response agencies, security forces, police personnel, medical teams and volunteers engaged in rescue and relief operations under challenging conditions. Their dedication, he said, has been instrumental in saving lives and providing assistance to stranded residents.Sharma appealed to citizens, voluntary organisations and social institutions to come forward in support of the affected families by contributing to relief efforts and extending every possible humanitarian assistance.
Conveying his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, he prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the tragic incidents. He expressed hope that with collective efforts, efficient rehabilitation and sustained government support, the affected regions would recover from the devastation and rebuild stronger in the days ahead.