Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, June 25
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday said that he has no objection to Pratibha Singh continuing as the state Congress president and backed her continuation in the role, saying she has done a commendable job. Amid speculations over changes in the state Congress leadership, Sukhu said, “If the party decides to retain her as president, I have no issues.” He also said that a cabinet expansion would take place soon.
In a devastating attack on the BJP, CM Sukhu accused the party of “murdering democracy daily,” while asserting that it was the Congress that laid the foundation of democracy and framed the Constitution. “Today, while the BJP observes the Emergency as a ‘Black Day’, they are themselves destroying the very Constitution that brought them to power,” he said. “The BJP is insulting the democracy that gave them the opportunity to govern.”
On the issue of monsoon preparedness, CM Sukhu reassured tourists and residents alike that Himachal Pradesh is fully prepared for the season. “We have made all necessary arrangements. Tourists should visit Himachal without any fear—there won’t be any damage,” he said. Recalling last year’s monsoon damages, he highlighted the safe evacuation of thousands of tourists and advised travelers to avoid rivers and streams during their visits, encouraging them to explore cities and enjoy the scenic beauty safely.
Addressing a long-standing issue, Sukhu also raised the matter of Himachal Pradesh’s rightful share in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects. He criticized the central government for not ensuring Himachal’s due rights, despite a favorable ruling by the Supreme Court. “Even after 14 years, Himachal has not received its share. Sometimes Punjab, sometimes Haryana, create roadblocks,” he said. Sukhu emphasized that Himachal deserves 12% free royalty from BBMB projects, just like it receives from SJVNL and NHPC, since the projects are built using Himachal’s resources. “Had Himachal received its rightful share, it would have become a prosperous state by now,” he asserted.
