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Shimla, July 8
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh was remembered on his fifth death anniversary on Wednesday, with tributes paid at his statue on the historic Ridge in Shimla. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh led the homage, joined by Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan, MLA Harish Janartha and several Congress leaders and workers.
Recalling the legacy of the six-time Chief Minister, Vikramaditya Singh said Virbhadra Singh’s vision of inclusive development continues to inspire the state. He said the late leader worked for the balanced development of every region and every section of society and made significant contributions to the expansion of education, road infrastructure, drinking water supply, irrigation, veterinary services, engineering colleges and medical colleges. He highlighted the expansion of Indira Gandhi Medical College in Shimla and the establishment of Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College at Tanda, saying these institutions have strengthened healthcare services for lakhs of people. He added that the present state government is committed to further strengthening medical, educational, technical and vocational institutions while working to fulfill Virbhadra Singh’s vision for the state’s development.
Speaking separately on international trade, Vikramaditya Singh welcomed India’s efforts to strengthen trade relations with other countries but said the interests of Himachal Pradesh’s apple growers and farmers must remain protected. Referring to the possibility of a trade agreement with New Zealand, he expressed concern that any further reduction in import duties on apples and other agricultural products could adversely affect local horticulturists.
He said India should continue to expand trade ties with countries including the United Kingdom, the United States and European nations, but agreements should not come at the cost of farmers and orchardists in Himachal Pradesh. He warned that lower import duties on apples, stone fruits, dairy products and other agricultural commodities could allow cheaper foreign produce to enter the Indian market, affecting local producers. He assured that the Congress government would continue to safeguard the interests of farmers and apple growers. Vikramaditya Singh also responded to remarks made by Himachal Pradesh BJP president Rajeev Bindal, saying no individual or political party has the authority to question another person’s faith or decide who a Hindu is. He said visiting temples and practising religion are personal matters and should not be subjected to political scrutiny.
The minister reiterated his demand for an independent investigation, under the supervision of the Chief Justice of India, into allegations related to donations and land transactions connected to the Ram Temple. He said he had personally contributed to the temple’s construction and attended the consecration ceremony, adding that any allegations of financial or land-related irregularities should be impartially examined to establish the truth.
