Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday called on the state’s BJP MPs to secure special permission under the Forest Clearance Act to allocate forest land for families devastated by recent rain-induced disasters. The appeal follows catastrophic cloudbursts, flash floods, and a landslide on June 30 and July 1, 2025, which claimed 14 lives, injured five, and left 28 missing in Mandi district.

Visiting the hard-hit Bagsaid area in Mandi, Sukhu emphasized that with 68% of Himachal’s land classified as forest, obtaining central approval for its use is critical for rehabilitating affected families. He specifically urged Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut to advocate for disaster relief with the Union government. “The biggest help from BJP MPs would be securing forest land allocation for these families,” Sukhu stated, highlighting the urgency of the crisis.

The disaster caused extensive damage, destroying 466 homes, 92 shops, 457 cattle sheds, 31 vehicles, 14 bridges, and numerous roads, while 446 cattle perished. Currently, 447 people are sheltered in relief camps. Sukhu refuted BJP’s social media claims of inadequate response, asserting, “We’ve air-dropped rations in Raingalu, Thunag, and ensured all facilities. Roads are now open, enabling our visits.” He accused the opposition of politicizing the crisis while the state government focuses on ground-level relief.

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Sukhu highlighted ongoing efforts, noting that Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh are actively overseeing operations. He urged BJP leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric and contribute constructively, either by coordinating with deputy commissioners or donating to the state disaster fund.

State BJP president Rajiv Bindal, however, criticized the government’s response, alleging delays in restoring roads and water supply, with rehabilitation efforts showing minimal impact. Sukhu countered, insisting the administration is working tirelessly to support affected communities.

The Chief Minister’s plea underscores the need for collaborative action to address the crisis, emphasizing practical solutions like forest land allocation to rebuild lives shattered by the monsoon fury.

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