What Can an MP Do for Their Constituency During Disasters? Kangana Ranaut's Role in Mandi Explained

As floods continue to ravage Himachal Pradesh, especially Mandi district, the spotlight is now on BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, who recently visited flood-affected areas. Her statement — “I don’t have funds, nor a cabinet, only two brothers with me” — has raised a crucial public question: What exactly can an MP do during such disasters? Here’s a clear breakdown:

Kangana Ranaut’s Statement in Context

While visiting the Siraj Assembly constituency on July 6, Kangana:

• Acknowledged the devastation caused by the floods.

• Blamed the Himachal Pradesh state government for inaction.

• Said her role is limited to raising issues and requesting funds from the Centre.

• Emphasized that funds are routed through the state, and MPs don't directly hold relief funds.

What Are an MP’s Actual Powers and Responsibilities? 1. Legislative Duties

• Making and amending laws.

• Debating national issues.

• Representing constituency voices in Parliament.

2. Monitoring and Oversight

• Holding the government accountable.

• Raising constituency-level problems on national platforms.

3. Budget and Finance

• MPs do not directly control state disaster funds, but:

• They can lobby ministries for central relief packages and special grants.

What Can an MP Do During Disasters Like Floods? A. Use of MPLADS (Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme)

• Each MP gets Rs 5 crore annually under MPLADS.

• Funds can be used for:

  • Building flood-resistant infrastructure (culverts, embankments, shelters).

  • Purchasing relief materials (water purifiers, tents, medicines).

  • Supporting temporary housing, toilets, or food distribution units.

Note: Though the MP can recommend projects, implementation is done by district authorities.

B. Influence and Advocacy

• Write to ministries like Home Affairs, Rural Development, or Disaster Management.

• Demand urgent central relief or NDRF/NCC deployment.

• Call for assessment teams from the Centre to evaluate and expedite compensation.

C. Connect Locally

• Coordinate with:

  • District collectors

  • Local NGOs

  • Disaster response teams

• Ensure ground relief distribution is fair and reaches remote areas.

Has Kangana Done Anything So Far?

According to her own statement:

• She visited victims and flood-hit villages.

• She claimed to have coordinated relief materials locally.

• She said she has communicated Mandi’s situation to the Centre.

However, there is no public report yet of her recommending MPLADS funds for flood relief — something she is fully entitled and empowered to do.

So, What More Can Kangana Ranaut Do for Mandi?

Recommend urgent MPLADS-funded relief works, especially for:

• Roads damaged by landslides

• Temporary shelters

• Medical supply camps

Press the Union government for:

• Special central assistance to Himachal

• More NDRF deployment

Publicly assure her constituency with regular updates and progress reports.

Collaborate with opposition MLAs from her constituency for non-partisan relief efforts.