Stating that Central Government understands the pain of September 7 flood hit victims, the Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi Saturday claimed that government of India and State government are working together for ensuring another relief package.“We understand the problems of the people of Kashmir which they face due to the devastating floods of September 2014. I can say that the Central government is working with the government Jammu and Kashmir for another relief package,” Naqvi told KNS over phone from New Delhi.He said that Government of India is committed to provide all help to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “We have already done a lot for the flood victims of Jammu and Kashmir. Whatever is necessary now we will do,” the union minister said.
Naqvi dismissed the allegations of delay of rehabilitation of those hit by 2014 deluge. “It is not the time for blame game or to make excuses. It is not the time for politics. The fact is that when the flood hit Kashmir the Prime Minister immediately provided the package. I can say you with the responsibility that to rebuild the state the union government is closely in touch with the state government,” he said.The Union Minister said that state government has submitted a package of Rs 44000 crore to the Central Government out of which Rs 1102 crore have been approved.“In the first instance, the Government of India provided Rs. 426 crore for paying compensation to those families whose houses were either severely or partially damaged. Then Rs13.79 crore were provided under PM’s National Relief Fund for making the ex-gratia payment to next of kin of deceased during the floods,” he added.Asked that most of the flood affected people have not received any relief he said, “It is the duty of state government to reach out to them.” (KNS)