Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu firmly stated in the state Assembly on Tuesday that the upcoming Congress programme in Mandi is a rally focused on a resolve for systemic change, not a celebratory event. This clarification came amid sharp criticism from the Opposition BJP regarding the timing and funding of the event scheduled for December 11.
Opposition Alleges Misuse of Disaster Funds
The controversy erupted during a discussion on the natural disaster under Rule 130. Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched a pointed attack, accusing the state government of planning a lavish celebration in Mandi, the district worst affected by the recent natural disaster. Thakur alleged that the Revenue Department was preparing to cover the event's expenses under the 'Natural Disaster' budget head.
He argued that organizing such a function in a severely impacted district was inappropriate and asserted that diverting disaster-relief funds for political gatherings would be completely unacceptable. Thakur also questioned the state's decision to defer Gram Panchayat elections using the Natural Disaster Act, 2025 and criticised the withdrawal of development funds.
Chief Minister's Detailed Rebuttal
Countering the allegations, CM Sukhu provided a detailed rebuttal. He emphasized that the event at Paddal Ground in Mandi is a 'Jan-Sankalp Rally' centered on 'Vyavastha Parivartan' (systemic reforms) and is not intended as a celebration. On the crucial issue of funding, Sukhu categorically assured the House that all expenditure for the rally would be borne by the state government and that no money allocated for disaster relief would be used for the event.
Sukhu stated that Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi would address all specific queries related to the department. Turning the tables, the Chief Minister also made allegations against the BJP. He claimed that during the disaster, BJP leaders and workers distributed relief materials among party workers instead of the general affected public. In a serious charge, he accused them of having "defamed the Tricolour by throwing shoes."
Political Exchange Intensifies in Assembly
The war of words continued with Jai Ram Thakur asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would provide assistance to the state and that the government cannot indefinitely blame the Centre for delays in disaster funds. Thakur highlighted his own efforts, stating he had walked through the affected areas for 22 consecutive days during the calamity.
The exchange during the Winter Session of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, held at Tapovan near Dharamshala, underscores the heightened political tensions in the state. The debate revolves around the optics of holding a political rally in a disaster-hit region and the sanctity of funds meant for rehabilitation and relief work.
