Kangana Ranaut Highlights Lack of Funds After Mandi Cloudburst. Photo Credit: indiatoday
BJP MP Kangana Ranaut highlighted the lack of funds available to her in the wake of the devastating Mandi cloudburst, stressing that as a newly elected Member of Parliament, she neither holds a cabinet portfolio nor has access to direct relief funds. She called upon the central government to release immediate assistance to flood-ravaged areas in Himachal Pradesh, pledging to serve as a strong voice for her constituents in Parliament, reported the India Today.
First Visit to Disaster-Hit Constituency
Ranaut visited her constituency for the first time since the devastating June 30 cloudbursts and flash floods wreaked havoc in Mandi and surrounding districts. At least 14 lives have been lost in the area, and 31 people remain missing. Ranaut surveyed affected villages, accompanied by senior BJP leader and former CM Jairam Thakur, and reassured locals that she would push the Centre for a special relief package.
“I Have No Cabinet, No Funds—Only a Voice”
Addressing media questions on why immediate relief hadn’t been provided from her end, Ranaut clarified, “I don’t have a cabinet. I have no official funds. But I have a voice in Parliament, and I will use it to raise this issue with the Prime Minister.” Her statement drew mixed reactions—some viewed it as a blunt admission of limited authority, while others found the tone inappropriate for a humanitarian crisis.
She also accused the state’s Congress-led government of mismanaging the disaster response and engaging in politically motivated relief distribution.
Congress Criticizes ‘Insensitive’ Remarks
The Congress party responded sharply to Ranaut’s comments, calling them tone-deaf and “insensitive” to the suffering of the people. Spokesperson Supriya Shrinate accused the MP of mocking victims by using sarcasm during a crisis. Local Congress leaders also pointed out the delay in Ranaut’s visit, contrasting it with the urgent presence of state officials on the ground from day one.
Despite the criticism, Ranaut remained unapologetic and reiterated that her visit was timed based on safety advisories and accessibility. Roads to the worst-hit areas were only recently cleared, she said.
On the Ground: Damage and Desperation
The floods have left behind a trail of devastation—over 150 homes damaged, 14 bridges swept away, more than 200 roads blocked, and dozens of villages without power or water. Agricultural land has been submerged, and over 160 livestock have died. The damage is estimated to be in hundreds of crores, although official figures are still being finalized.
Ranaut listened to grievances from displaced villagers and promised to take their voices to Delhi, insisting that Himachal’s hill terrain demands faster and more targeted disaster response strategies.
Disaster Politics or Genuine Concern?
While critics allege that Ranaut is using the disaster for political optics, her supporters argue that she is raising genuine concerns about the limitations of an MP’s role during natural disasters. Her remarks have reignited a broader debate about what powers MPs actually have in disaster situations and whether existing systems allow them to act quickly and effectively.
She also took a dig at the state administration, accusing it of corruption and sluggishness in distributing central assistance sent earlier during last year’s monsoon crisis.
What Lies Ahead for Mandi and Kangana
Kangana Ranaut has promised to meet senior central government officials and raise the issue in the upcoming Parliament session. She also intends to push for a long-term disaster mitigation plan for hill states like Himachal Pradesh, including early warning systems, sustainable infrastructure, and quicker fund disbursement mechanisms.
Her political tone may have drawn controversy, but the underlying issue she spotlighted—the lack of immediate funds and bureaucratic bottlenecks during natural calamities—remains painfully relevant for thousands affected by the Mandi floods.
For more regional stories click here
Follow us for latest updates:
