Fri Jul 04 18:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

Following devastating floods and cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh, resulting in numerous deaths, controversy arose regarding the absence of BJP MP Kangana Ranaut from the affected areas. Ranaut stated she was advised by Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur to wait until connectivity was restored. The ruling Congress party seized on this, with the Chief Minister suggesting Thakur was displeased with Ranaut’s absence. Thakur himself lamented the destruction in his constituency and urged swift relief efforts.

**News Article:**

**Himachal Pradesh Floods: Political Sparring Erupts Over MP’s Absence**

*Shimla, July 5, 2025* – As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of devastating floods and cloudbursts that have claimed at least 43 lives, a political spat has erupted over the absence of BJP MP Kangana Ranaut from the affected Mandi district.

The controversy began when Ranaut stated on X (formerly Twitter) that she had been advised by Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur to postpone her visit until connectivity to the flood-hit areas was restored. “It is heartbreaking to see massive flood devastation in Himachal almost every year now… was advised by respected leader of opposition Shri @jairamthakurbjp ji to wait untill the connectivity,” she posted. She later added that she was en route to the state and would visit affected areas soon.

The ruling Congress party quickly seized on Ranaut’s statement. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu took a dig at the BJP, suggesting Thakur was unhappy with Ranaut’s initial absence. “Cannot comment on those who are not,” Thakur said when questioned about Ranaut’s absence.

The floods, which include the 10 instances of cloudbursts, flash floods and landslides, have been particularly severe in the Mandi district, where 17 deaths have been reported. Thakur, speaking at a press conference, lamented the extensive damage in his Seraj constituency. “The two decades of development works… have been ruined in the calamity,” he said, urging the government to expedite relief and restoration efforts on a “war footing.”

While Ranaut has assured the public of her support for Himachal Pradesh, the initial delay in her visit has sparked criticism and fueled political tensions amid the ongoing crisis.

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