Hooda Urges Government to Provide Immediate Relief
Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda has demanded that the state government provide immediate and fair compensation to shopkeepers whose establishments were destroyed in a massive fire at D-park market in Rohtak on June 9. The affected traders are still awaiting financial assistance to restart their businesses, over a month after the incident.
During his visit to Rohtak on Friday, Hooda spoke with district administration officials over the phone, urging them to expedite the release of funds. He warned that the Congress party would organize a protest if the compensation is further delayed.
Shopkeepers Struggle as Compensation Remains Pending
“The shopkeepers have been without work since their shops and goods were destroyed in the June 9 fire. They are struggling to support their families, but the state government is yet to provide compensation to help them rebuild their shops. This reflects its insensitive attitude towards the affected traders,” Hooda said.
The former chief minister emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure prompt and fair compensation to help the traders recover from the crisis. He noted that the delay in financial aid has compounded the hardships faced by the shopkeepers, many of whom have lost their entire inventory.
Political Tensions Rise Over Relief Delay
Hooda’s remarks come amid growing frustration among the affected community. The D-park market fire, which broke out on the night of June 9, gutted dozens of shops, causing losses estimated in crores. Despite multiple appeals, the state government has not yet disbursed any compensation, according to local traders.
The Congress leader’s threat of a protest signals a potential political showdown over the issue. Hooda, a prominent opposition figure, has been critical of the ruling BJP-JJP coalition’s handling of disaster relief in the state.
Impact on Local Economy
The fire has severely disrupted economic activity in the area, with many shopkeepers left without means to earn a livelihood. The market, a key commercial hub in Rohtak, is still partially closed as cleanup and assessment efforts continue. Traders are demanding a comprehensive package that includes compensation for goods lost and support for rebuilding infrastructure.
