CM Sukhu rejects Peterhoff property sale claims

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday rejected allegations that his government planned to sell the historic Peterhoff property, asserting that the state intended to develop a larger building with around 100 rooms instead. He also challenged the BJP to participate in discussions during the upcoming winter session rather than staging walkouts.

Responding to allegations by Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur over the sale of government properties, CM Sukhu said his government would neither sell public assets nor allow anyone to exploit them. He said Peterhoff was facing leakage problems and its building had deteriorated, making redevelopment necessary.

The Chief Minister recalled that the earlier Peterhoff building had been destroyed in a fire and a new structure was subsequently built during the tenure of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh. He said the present government was working towards developing an even larger facility with at least 100 rooms.

Targeting the BJP, CM Sukhu alleged that the previous government had allotted 5,000 bighas of land under a customised package on a 99-year lease for Rs 1 crore without registration. He maintained that his government had no intention of selling any government property.

CM backs Sonia Gandhi’s book

CM Sukhu also commented on senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s book ‘Belonging: A Journey Of Love’, saying she had honestly documented her experiences and memories from her political life. He said the book was attracting considerable interest among readers and was scheduled to be launched in Delhi on November 16.

The Chief Minister referred to the sacrifices made by Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi for the country’s unity and integrity and highlighted Sonia Gandhi’s contribution to strengthening the Congress. He said the party continued to remain the country’s principal Opposition party.

Later, CM Sukhu interacted with dental doctors at the Secretariat and heard their concerns. He directed officials to address their problems and called for improvements and modernisation in dental healthcare services across the state.

CM Sukhu asks BJP to participate in winter session

On preparations for the Assembly’s winter session, CM Sukhu said the government had scheduled the longest winter session this time and expected the Opposition to raise public issues through proper debate.

He urged the BJP not to follow its alleged practice of walking out of the House and instead participate in discussions. Taking a dig at Jai Ram Thakur, the Chief Minister said the Leader of Opposition appeared to be under considerable pressure and claimed there was resentment within the BJP legislative party.

CM Sukhu said the decision to hold the session early was aimed at ensuring that Himachal Pradesh’s tourism season was not affected. He described tourism as an important contributor to the state’s economy and said the government wanted to avoid any disruption to tourism-related activities because of the Assembly proceedings.