Jai Ram Thakur Critiques Sukhu Government for Governance Failures in Himachal Pradesh
Thakur's Strong Criticism of Current Administration
Munish Sood
Mandi
Jai Ram Thakur, the former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and current Leader of Opposition, has launched a fierce critique of the Sukhu administration, claiming it has plunged the state into chaos, financial instability, and a decline in democratic values.
During a press briefing at the BJP office in Una, Thakur stated that the once-prominent slogan of “Sukh ki Sarkar” has lost its meaning, as residents are grappling with insecurity, unemployment, and economic hardship. He emphasized that the current lawlessness indicates a total breakdown of governance in the region.
Starting the press conference with a somber tone, Thakur expressed his condolences for the recent tragic road accidents, particularly the heartbreaking incident in Daulatpur that claimed the lives of four family members. He assured that the BJP stands in solidarity with the grieving family and called for immediate financial support and quality medical care for those injured in the Haripur Dhar bus accident in Sirmaur district.
Thakur accused the Sukhu government of failing on multiple fronts, noting a surge in violent crimes and asserting that the Chief Minister appears to have lost control over the state's administration.
He pointed out that Himachal Pradesh is currently facing its most severe economic crisis, criticizing the government for accumulating massive debts that are being squandered on unnecessary expenditures rather than on development. He warned that this trend is jeopardizing the future of the state.
On the issue of employment, Thakur reminded the government of its promise to create five lakh jobs, stating that recruitment efforts have stalled, forcing educated youth to protest. He highlighted that, for the first time, government employees are seeking legal recourse for their due allowances and arrears.
Thakur also raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs in border areas, attributing the rise in addiction among youth to ineffective government policies, while the police seem to be inactive. He criticized the closure of public institutions established during the BJP's tenure as an example of vindictive governance.
Concerns Over Democratic Processes
Following the press conference, Thakur led a meeting with the Panchayati Raj Cell and local representatives at the BJP office. He accused the current government of intentionally delaying local elections by misusing the Disaster Management Act.
“It is contradictory that the government uses disasters as a reason to postpone elections while simultaneously celebrating three years in power with lavish events. This demonstrates their insensitivity and double standards regarding democracy,” he stated.
Thakur welcomed the High Court's strong remarks on the issue and urged for the immediate initiation of the election process to prevent hindrances to rural development and restore democratic governance.
In closing, he urged party members to ensure that welfare schemes from the Central Government reach every individual in society. He warned that if the government does not retract its unpopular decisions and improve governance, the BJP would initiate a significant statewide movement.
Upon his arrival in Una, Thakur received a warm welcome from BJP MLAs, former legislators, and party workers.