In a significant development for Himachal Pradesh's grassroots democracy, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thai Thakur has hailed a recent High Court directive as a landmark victory. The court has ordered the state government to conduct elections for panchayati raj institutions and urban local bodies, a move Thakur described as historic and a triumph for democratic principles.
Allegations of Misusing Disaster Management Act
Launching a sharp critique against the ruling Congress government, Thakur accused Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of deliberately delaying the crucial local polls for the past five months. He alleged that the government misused the Disaster Management Act, a law intended for protecting lives and property during emergencies, as a pretext to serve its own political interests.
"Using disasters to stifle democracy is a long-standing Congress tactic," stated the former Chief Minister. He expressed strong disapproval of the CM's response to the court's ruling, labelling Sukhu's interpretation of the verdict as "ridiculous". Thakur emphasised the absurdity of invoking such laws for political gain while celebrations are held, especially amidst disaster scenarios.
Concerns Over Autonomy and Constitutional Violations
Thakur further exposed what he called the Congress party's "double standards". He pointed out that while party leaders publicly advocate for saving the Constitution, they frequently violate its tenets when in power. A major concern raised by the senior BJP leader was the alleged pressure exerted by the state government on the State Election Commission.
He issued a stern warning, stating that undermining such autonomous constitutional bodies poses a direct threat to the future of democracy itself. Thakur stressed the urgent need for the government to cease all manipulation and allow the Election Commission to function with complete independence to conduct the local body polls.
Judiciary Restores Democratic Rights
Jai Ram Thakur wholeheartedly welcomed the judiciary's intervention in the matter. He stated that the High Court's order has effectively restored the democratic rights of the people of Himachal Pradesh. The BJP leader urged the Sukhu-led administration to promptly comply with the court's directive and ensure that the democratic process for local governance resumes without any further delay.
The call for elections comes as a crucial step towards reinforcing democratic foundations at the village and municipal levels, which have been without elected representatives due to the prolonged postponement.
