Should We Prioritize Support Over Politics? Poonch Victim's Relative Critiques Rahul Gandhi

Synopsis
In a heartfelt statement, the uncle of a martyred ex-serviceman criticized political figures for using tragedy for their gain. With Home Minister Amit Shah offering real support, the plea for unity in times of grief resonates. Discover how this incident reflects the broader implications of politics in humanitarian crises.
Key Takeaways
- A tragic event occurred in Poonch due to Pakistani shelling.
- The uncle of the martyred ex-serviceman criticized political leaders.
- Amit Shah provided assurance and support to affected families.
- Calls for humanitarian aid over political gestures are strong.
- More bunkers will be built to protect civilians in the future.
Poonch, May 30 (NationPress) The uncle of Amarjeet Singh, a 50-year-old ex-serviceman who lost his life due to Pakistani artillery shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, expressed criticism towards Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He emphasized that such serious issues should remain free from political agendas.
Amarjeet Singh was among the 12 civilians who lost their lives during the intense Pakistani shelling in the Poonch and Tangdhar sectors on May 7. This assault not only resulted in fatalities but also led to extensive damage to properties, including Singh's home, leaving his family in despair.
“Today, Home Minister Amit Shah visited the victims and offered support to the grieving families in Poonch. He assured us that the government would provide compensation packages for those affected. He also commended the efforts of the local administration,” Surjan Singh informed IANS.
However, Singh expressed dissatisfaction with the behavior of certain political figures.
“Numerous political leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, are turning this tragedy into a political issue. We are mourning our loved ones — what we need is assistance, not politics. Amit Shah provided us with hope. He discussed rehabilitation and pledged support,” he stated.
He also criticized Rahul Gandhi, who had previously visited the bereaved families.
“Rahul Gandhi came to see us, but we received no real assistance. It felt more like a political gesture than genuine help. Any aid we receive will come from the Centre. Home Minister Amit Shah met us and gave us his word,” Surjan Singh reiterated.
On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Poonch, meeting families affected by the Pakistani shelling and drone strikes conducted during Operation Sindoor. Among those he met was Surjan Singh, Amarjeet Singh's uncle.
During his visit, Amit Shah condemned Pakistan, labeling the cross-border shelling a “cowardly act” aimed at innocent civilians.
“Pakistan has targeted homes and temples in J&K,” Amit Shah declared while addressing a public gathering in Poonch.
He also praised the Indian Army's precise retaliatory strikes against Pakistan, calling them a strategic and appropriate response.
Shah additionally announced that the Centre would establish more bunkers along the border to protect civilian lives and lessen vulnerabilities to future shelling.
The Poonch district reported the highest number of civilian casualties, with 14 out of 28 deaths occurring between May 7 and May 10. Shah's visit, conducted under tight security, marks his first trip to J&K since the initiation of Operation Sindoor.
He also visited a gurdwara that sustained damage during the shelling, offering prayers and solidarity to the affected community.