Himachal Minister Accuses BJP of Flag Insult During Protest
Minister's Allegations Against BJP
Munish Sood
SHIMLA: Jagat Singh Negi, a senior leader from the Congress party and Himachal Pradesh minister, accused the opposition BJP on Sunday (July 27, 2025) of orchestrating a disgraceful act where the national flag was allegedly disrespected during a protest in Thunag.
During a press briefing, Negi claimed that BJP supporters threw black flags and shoes at his vehicle, which displayed the Tricolour on its bonnet. He stated, “The black flags and shoes struck the national flag, which is a direct affront to our nation's dignity. This exemplifies the hypocrisy of the BJP. Those who profess loyalty to the Tricolour have dishonoured it,” he asserted.
Allegations of a Staged Protest
Negi further alleged that the protest was orchestrated by the BJP, asserting that the individuals involved were primarily contractors or landlords affected by the relocation of the Horticulture and Forestry College from Thunag in the Mandi district.
“These landlords and contractors exploit students by charging excessive rents while providing inadequate living conditions. Numerous college students are forced to stay in temporary hostels or rented homes. Authorities have failed to provide any permanent or safe housing solutions. For years, parents have been urging the relocation of educational institutions from this disaster-prone area, especially after numerous natural disasters,” he explained.
Minister Defends His Actions
Negi dismissed rumors suggesting he abandoned the area during the protest. “I was present to evaluate the relief and rescue operations. I departed only after confirming that assistance was being effectively distributed and that administrative measures were underway. My presence was purely administrative and humanitarian, not political,” he clarified.
He accused BJP leaders of being disturbed by his proactive role in relief efforts and unable to accept that a Congress minister was receiving public appreciation. “I visited affected villages and engaged with residents directly. The administration is functioning effectively. However, the BJP does not want the public to witness the government's on-ground actions,” he stated.
Criticism of BJP's Response to Natural Disasters
Referring to the recent natural disaster in Seraj, Negi criticized former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and other BJP leaders for engaging in political maneuvering in Delhi while Himachal faced crises. “When we invited BJP leaders to Delhi during the 2023 disaster to jointly request central aid, they declined. The central government, under BJP's oversight, did not provide significant relief for Himachal at that time. Yet now, they are creating a spectacle in Delhi solely for their constituency in Seraj,” he remarked.