Bikram Thakur Criticizes Congress Government Over Alleged Corruption in Kangra Valley
BJP Leader's Strong Allegations
Dharamshala: Bikram Thakur, a senior leader of the BJP and former Industries Minister of Himachal Pradesh, has launched a fierce critique against the Congress government led by Sukhu. He has accused the administration of significant financial misconduct, coercive fundraising, and corruption linked to the Kangra Valley Karnival.
Thakur asserted that the government is steering the state towards a troubling 'donation regime,' where official events are financed not through the state budget but through funds forcibly collected from local traders and the public. He labeled this situation as a severe case of economic mismanagement and a breakdown of ethical governance.
Key Allegations
- Coerced Donations: Reports indicate that traders were compelled to provide 'financial support' for the carnival. After facing public backlash, the administration issued a directive to cease these collections.
- Demand for Transparency: Thakur called for transparency regarding the total amount collected, the accounts into which these funds were deposited, and their expenditures. He urged the Kangra Deputy Commissioner to publish a white paper for clarity.
- Evidence of Coercion: A letter from the district civil supplies controller that circulated widely on social media, according to Thakur, demonstrates that these collections were conducted with government oversight and coercion rather than voluntary participation.
- Irregularities in Event Management: Thakur claimed that while performers were contracted at agreed rates, inflated invoices were submitted, resulting in financial losses for the state. Additionally, commercial facilities such as shops and rides were allegedly rented out at arbitrary prices.
Wider Critique of Governance
Thakur accused the Congress administration of lamenting a financial crisis while simultaneously hosting extravagant events that benefit a select few. He pointed out that during the three years of Congress governance, development has stagnated, job opportunities have diminished, and the trading community is now under threat.
Warning of Potential Protests
The BJP leader cautioned that if the government does not promptly halt these corrupt practices and take stringent action against those involved, the BJP will initiate a vigorous campaign 'from the streets to the Assembly' to safeguard the interests of traders and the general public.