
New Delhi, September 6 (Daily Kiran) : Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Harish Rawat, expressed serious concerns regarding the recent building collapse in the Satya Niketan area of Delhi. He stated that the city should have identified and declared old, dilapidated buildings unsafe in a timely manner to avert such tragedies.
In an interview in New Delhi, Rawat emphasized the importance of assessing each building. He argued that these structures should have been declared unsafe before the onset of the monsoon, allowing residents to be relocated to safer areas. Rawat recalled that during Congress’s tenure, several initiatives were taken to improve local infrastructure, including widening narrow streets. He criticized the current government for failing to maintain these efforts since Congress left power, noting that older buildings have a predetermined lifespan and require regular evaluations.
Rawat also commented on the BJP’s election promises, questioning the party’s credibility after failing to fulfill its 2014 commitments. He sarcastically remarked that people are still waiting for the promised 15 lakh rupees in their bank accounts, raising doubts about what can be expected from local leaders like Rekha Gupta.
On the recent removal of senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel from his position in Punjab, Rawat described such changes in party responsibilities as a normal process. He explained that shifts in roles are common within the party, with Baghel now taking on a challenging role in Assam.
Regarding his absence from protests against the BJP in Uttarakhand, Rawat mentioned that he is not in optimal health but remains engaged with the community. He stated that he is doing what he can within his current capabilities.
When asked about the desire to recruit new members into the Congress party in Uttarakhand, Rawat acknowledged that while aspirations exist, final decisions rest with the party’s top leadership.
Lastly, Rawat criticized Prime Minister Modi’s use of the term “mental naxal” in political discourse. He argued that while political rhetoric often includes sarcasm, those in constitutional positions should maintain the dignity of their language. He asserted that as the Prime Minister, Modi should refrain from such derogatory remarks, even if made by lesser party members.
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