Shimla, May 4
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday flagged off 10 electric vehicles for waste collection in Shimla while also making strong political remarks on election trends, EVM reliability, and rising inflation.
Launching the initiative from the state secretariat, Sukhu said the move makes the Shimla Municipal Corporation the first urban local body in the state to begin a phased transition of its waste management fleet to electric vehicles. He termed the step crucial for promoting e-mobility and achieving the state’s goal of becoming a green state. Trial runs conducted in November 2025 confirmed the vehicles’ efficiency in Shimla’s terrain and weather conditions. The Chief Minister added that the shift will also reduce operational costs amid rising fuel prices.
On the political front, Sukhu questioned the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), alleging that they could be hacked “anywhere by anyone.” Referring to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, he said it was unlikely that Congress received only 20% of the vote in Himachal Pradesh, raising doubts about the results.
Commenting on election trends in West Bengal, he accused the BJP of promoting polarization and claimed that Congress is re-emerging in the state. He also alleged misuse of central agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation, stating they were being used as political tools.
Responding to the BJP’s criticism of Congress’s “10 guarantees,” Sukhu said his government has fulfilled key promises, including financial assistance of ₹1,500 to women from families with an annual income below ₹2 lakh. He added that the scheme would be expanded further.
Targeting the Center over inflation, Sukhu said the recent hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices would be raised as a key issue in upcoming municipal and Panchayati Raj elections, particularly in urban areas.
Addressing recent bomb threats to schools in Shimla, the Chief Minister assured that police are investigating the matter and reiterated that the safety of children remains the government’s top priority.
The event was attended by senior ministers, including Anirudh Singh, Vikramaditya Singh, Rajesh Dharmani, and other officials.
