The recent tragic helicopter crash in Uttarakhand’s Kedarnath region, which claimed the lives of seven individuals, has not only highlighted serious concerns about aviation safety but also brought to light deeply troubling statements from BJP leaders that have sparked widespread outrage.
On June 15, 2025, a Bell 407 helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed while enroute from Kedarnath to Guptkashi. This incident marked the fifth such crash in the region within 39 days.
However, amidst this crisis, BJP National Vice President Dushyant Kumar Gautam’s remarks have drawn severe criticism. When questioned by the media about the possibility of accidents, Gautam responded, “आप ही बिना एक्सिडेंट की गारंटी लेकर बताइए” (“You guarantee no accidents yourself”), a statement that many have deemed insensitive and dismissive of the gravity of the situation.
This is not the first instance of controversial statements from BJP leaders in Uttarakhand. Earlier this year, Finance Minister Prem Chand Agarwal faced backlash for his comment suggesting that Uttarakhand was not created solely for ‘pahadis’ (hill people). The remark led to widespread protests and calls for his resignation. Eventually, Agarwal resigned from his position, acknowledging the divisive nature of his statement.
These incidents raise serious concerns about the leadership’s sensitivity and accountability. In times of crisis, public figures are expected to demonstrate empathy and responsibility. Instead, the dismissive and divisive rhetoric from certain BJP leaders has only added to the public’s distress.
It is imperative for political leaders to exercise caution and thoughtfulness in their public statements, especially when addressing sensitive issues. The people of Uttarakhand deserve leaders who prioritize their safety and well-being over political narratives.
DEVENDRA RAWAT
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