Shimla, June 20
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday called for a thorough investigation into the alleged NEET paper leak and reiterated the state’s claim to a 7.19 percent share in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), while addressing an engineers’ conclave in Shimla.
The event brought together engineers from six northern states to deliberate on sustainable road, tunnel, and building construction, particularly in hill regions. Discussions focused on challenges in durable infrastructure development and on technical solutions for mountainous terrain.
Addressing the gathering, Sukhu said the Public Works Department (PWD) would expand its role beyond road construction and undertake projects related to tunnels, ropeways and dams. He stressed that sustainable development in Himachal Pradesh would require effective management of landslides, drainage systems, and environmental conservation.
The Chief Minister also launched a sharp attack on the Centre and the previous BJP government over repeated allegations of examination paper leaks. He said recurring NEET paper-leak incidents amounted to compromising the future of millions of students and demanded an impartial, in-depth investigation.
Sukhu referred to previous paper leak cases in Himachal Pradesh, including the Hamirpur Staff Selection Commission recruitment examination and police recruitment tests. He said the state government had to dissolve the commission due to irregularities and alleged that adequate action was not taken during the previous administration.
Highlighting student welfare measures, the Chief Minister said candidates appearing for the NEET examination had been provided free travel facilities in Himachal Road Transport Corporation buses to ensure smooth access to examination centres.
On the BBMB issue, Sukhu reiterated that Himachal Pradesh was entitled to a 7.19 percent share as recognized by the Supreme Court. He said the state government was pursuing the matter with Punjab and Rajasthan and would soon hold discussions with Haryana as well.
The Chief Minister urged Haryana to support Himachal Pradesh’s claim through an affidavit in court, stating that the state should receive its rightful share in the BBMB.
Sukhu also said the government had strengthened disaster preparedness ahead of the monsoon season. Drawing lessons from previous years, he said authorities had been instructed to remain vigilant and ensure rapid response mechanisms remain in place.
He noted that roads damaged during disasters were restored in record time through the installation of valley bridges and said the government’s priority remained minimizing loss of life and property while ensuring prompt relief and rehabilitation measures during emergencies.
