Don't play politics over natural calamity: Anurag Thakur slams Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Thakur's remarks came after Sukhu, in an interview, appeared to blame architects from Bihar for the house collapse incidents in Shimla and other parts of the state.

"The migrant architects (masons), whom I call 'Bihari architects', come here and construct a floor on the floor. We do not have local masons," the Himachal Chief Minister said.

"As of now let's first focus on working together to save the lives, livelihood, and infrastructure of Himachal Pradesh. There is enough time for politics," Thakur countered.

"The Congress has a history of disparaging those who have helped our nation. And the people of Bihar have demonstrated it by their contribution to the country," he said.

Meanwhile, the death toll in this week's heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh rose to 71 with more bodies being recovered, according to the state government.

Thirteen people are still missing. A total of 57 bodies have been recovered since Sunday night.

Thakur also criticised the state ministers who are blaming "mining and highway constructions" for this disaster and said: "Ministers are speaking in different voices, so rather than making these kinds of comments the government should focus on rescue and relief operations and to provide all sought of facilities to the people of Himachal Pradesh."

On the Centre's assistance to the state, he said all kinds of support are already being actively provided to the state.

"Twelve NDRF teams including the Air Force are working at the ground and whenever Himachal Pradesh places any request about its requirements, the central government will look into it," Thakur assured.

Thakur said the central government stands with the people of Himachal in their hour of crisis.

"We will look into what could be best done for the people of Himachal Pradesh. BJP's local leaders have already visited the bereaved families," he said.

[With UNI inputs]