Govt missing on ground, Kashmiris suffering: Umar

Chairman of Hurriyat Conference (M), Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday hit out at government saying the official machinery has completely failed to provide relief to flood affected persons in Kashmir.

Addressing Friday congregation at historic Jamia Masjid here, Mirwaiz said, “The ground situation belies the government’s claims of providing relief to flood affected persons.”
“State machinery is missing on the ground. The tall claims made by the state government of providing relief of the deluge victims fall flat. There is immense shortage of basic amenities including drinking water and medicines. There is shortage of food items,” Mirwaiz said.
He said many areas are still inundated. “The problem is compounded by presence of carcass of animals. There is high risk of outbreak of an epidemic and it is ironical that state government is unmoved over this serious issue,” he said.
“Kashmir is passing through toughest times due to nature’s fury. Floods have caused massive damage to life and property and affected all sectors. Preliminary reports suggest floods have inflicted losses of over Rs 80,000 crores. It will take Kashmir years together to recuperate from such a massive loss,” he said.
The Hurriyat (M) Chairman said most of the relief work is carried out by local voluntary groups and organisations. “During past over two decades, Kashmiris have rendered unflinching sacrifices and shown resilience. The hallmark of great nations is that they don’t wait for help from others. People should exhibit same determination and courage to deal with the present catastrophe as they have shown since 1990. It is high time for Kashmiris to become self reliant and extend helping hand to each other in times of crisis,” he said.