Srinagar:
On allegations of no sign of state government
- I had no government
- All infrastructure of the state government was under water
- There were no cellphones, no connectivity
- "My state govt couldn't respond in first 24 hours as we didn't have a government"
- Was not able to reach several ministers.
- "Many of my ministers I've only been able to meet after six days."
- Today, I am meeting ministers after 6 days because they were swept away by floods
- I am now starting to track down ministers and officers
- No other example where govt machinery was so devastated by a natural disaster
- Very commendable job done by armed forces under very tough circumstances
- I am not going to get into a credit battle
- My only focus is to ensure relief material reaches people.
- We have to reschedule exams so that children don't lose a year.
- We will give six months ration to people
- Need to reassure people that their money is safe in banks
- In the long-term, we will ensure that children's careers, businesses and lives go foward
- "We have re-oriented rescue operations since many people don't want to leave their homes."
- "Usual elements fishing in troubled waters, stone pelting and attacks being provoked"
- "If people want to blame my govt so be it, won't be dragged into that debate."
