BJP Leader Criticizes Himachal Government Over Health Scheme Allegations

In a recent address, BJP leader Jai Ram Thakur criticized the Himachal Pradesh government for its investigation into the Himcare health scheme, labeling it as politically motivated. He challenged the government to prove its allegations of financial misconduct, asserting that the scheme had been unfairly targeted. Thakur expressed confidence in the BJP's prospects for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections, predicting a sweep in Mandi district. He also highlighted internal strife within the Congress party and urged newly elected representatives to prioritize public service. The discussion also touched on India's growing influence on the global stage, particularly in the context of the recent BRICS summit.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 13, 2026, 19:22 IST

Accusations Against the State Government

Munish Sood from Mandi reports that Jai Ram Thakur, a senior leader of the BJP and the Leader of Opposition, has accused the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu administration of engaging in 'politics of vendetta' aimed at undermining the Himcare health initiative established during the BJP's tenure. Thakur described the ongoing investigation as politically motivated.

During a ceremony honoring newly elected Panchayati Raj officials in Nachan, Thakur challenged the state government to substantiate its claims of financial misconduct related to Himcare, asserting that the scheme was being unfairly targeted after the government failed to validate its previous allegations.

Initially, the government alleged a ₹1,100-crore scam associated with Himcare, yet Thakur pointed out that the total expenditure on the scheme since its launch was approximately ₹850 crore. He claimed that after scrutiny of these figures, the government shifted its focus to a ₹100 crore allegation and initiated a police inquiry.

Thakur stated, 'Let them prove the scam. If they fail, the people of Himachal will know the truth.' He added that if the BJP regains power in 2027, it would conduct a fair investigation into the current inquiry.

The former Chief Minister criticized the Congress government's performance, claiming that its governance model revolved around 'lockdowns and closures.' He asserted that as the government nears the end of its term, Himachal Pradesh remains stagnant in development compared to when the BJP was in power.

Thakur expressed confidence in the BJP's chances in the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections, predicting that the party would win all 10 constituencies in Mandi district. He also noted a favorable political climate for the BJP in Kangra, forecasting at least 12 seats for the party there.

Commenting on the recent Zila Parishad elections in Shimla, Thakur interpreted the BJP's success as a sign of increasing public dissatisfaction with the Congress government. He claimed that even in areas crucial to the Chief Minister, voters were sending a clear message against the ruling party.

Thakur took a jab at the Congress leadership, suggesting that the Chief Minister's recent trip to Delhi revealed internal rifts within the party. He alleged that some ministers were seeking a leadership change while others were vying for ministerial positions, yet the Congress high command had not engaged with them.

He further accused the Chief Minister of announcing ministerial appointments without following proper constitutional procedures, leaving aspirants in limbo for months.

Regarding the Panchayati Raj elections, Thakur alleged that the state government had tried to postpone the polls by any means necessary, and they were only conducted after the Supreme Court intervened. He claimed the results indicated a lack of support for the Congress government and credited BJP workers for the party's success.

Thakur also alleged that the government was misusing official resources to target political adversaries, claiming that false FIRs had been filed against 13 BJP MLAs and former legislators, with officials being pressured to fabricate cases against BJP leaders.

He encouraged the newly elected Panchayati Raj representatives to prioritize development and public service without succumbing to fear or political pressure.

Local MLA Vinod Kumar echoed Thakur's criticisms of the state government, urging the new representatives to act with integrity and focus on the people's interests.

On the topic of the BRICS summit, Thakur remarked that India's growing influence under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enhanced the nation's global standing. He noted that India has effectively voiced the concerns of developing nations and advocated for increased involvement of emerging economies in global decision-making processes. Thakur emphasized that India is not just participating in the evolving global landscape but is actively shaping the international agenda.