Kharge writes to PM, seeks aid for flood-hit Nepal and evacuation of Indians

Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the government to extend humanitarian and relief assistance to Nepal, which is reeling from severe flash floods. The letter, dated August 28 and released on Saturday, also calls for intensified efforts to ensure the safety and evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in the country.

Kharge expressed deep concern over the devastation, noting that recent media reports indicate the floods have claimed over 600 lives, with thousands more reported missing. He highlighted that a large number of people are in urgent need of food, medicines, shelter, and other essential supplies.

In his communication to the Prime Minister, Kharge requested that adequate humanitarian and relief assistance be provided to the affected population in coordination with the Government of Nepal. He also drew attention to the situation of Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin stranded in various parts of Nepal, urging the Centre to issue necessary directives to intensify rescue and evacuation operations and arrange for their safe and early return.

Referring to information from the Ministry of External Affairs, Kharge noted that around 320 Indian nationals remain uncontactable in Nepal and called for immediate steps to provide all possible assistance to them.

In a separate letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Kharge urged the government to consider extending immediate and comprehensive humanitarian and disaster-relief assistance to Nepal, underlining the deep and enduring ties between the two countries. He suggested that the deployment of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, wherever required and in coordination with the Nepalese government, should be considered to assist in rescue, evacuation, and relief operations.

Kharge emphasised that the NDRF's expertise in responding to natural disasters could provide valuable support in saving lives and delivering urgent relief to affected communities. He urged the Home Ministry to treat the matter with urgency and sensitivity.