Is Jammu and Kashmir Ready for Future Natural Disasters?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Administration is ready for future natural disasters.
- Heartfelt condolences offered to the victims' families.
- Emphasis on the importance of the Election Commission's integrity.
- Proactive measures being implemented for disaster management.
- Commitment to transparency in electoral processes.
Jammu, Aug 18 (NationPress) Following a series of devastating cloudbursts in Jammu and Kashmir, Kavinder Gupta, the former Chief Minister and current Lt Governor of Ladakh, stated on Monday that the administration is thoroughly equipped to manage any potential natural disasters in the future.
The most significant cloudburst took place on Thursday in Chashoti, Kashmir, with additional events reported in Frislan and Batkoo in Pahalgam, Rayil Gund in Ganderbal district, as well as Bodhkharbu and Hinaskote in Kargil district, and Lamayuru in Leh district.
In an interview with IANS, Gupta remarked: "This is a considerable natural disaster. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families mourning their loved ones. I have directed the administration to assess the situation comprehensively. Following the incident in Ladakh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered guidance on the issue yesterday and requested a visit to the affected regions."
"I sincerely hope such cloudbursts do not recur. However, should another event occur, we are completely ready to respond effectively."
Gupta also commented on the selection of Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential elections set for September 9.
"This is an excellent choice. He is likely to secure a majority and win," he asserted.
Addressing the controversy surrounding allegations of "vote theft" made by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders, Gupta defended the Election Commission of India (ECI), which has firmly dismissed these claims as "misleading."
"The ECI is a vital constitutional institution. It is inappropriate for Rahul Gandhi to continually question its integrity. He should express his views based on evidence; otherwise, he ought to apologize," Gupta stated.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, during a press conference on Sunday, declared: "Using terms like vote theft to mislead the public is an affront to the Constitution."
He emphasized that the allegations of double voting and "vote theft" during Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls are unfounded and reassured that all parties are committed to maintaining transparency.