The North News
Shimla, January 13
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Tuesday alleged that some officers posted from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were acting against the interests of Himachal Pradesh and were involved in irregularities linked to central government funds. Speaking without naming individuals, he alleged that money allocated by the centre for road construction and other development projects was being misused. He said such conduct would not be tolerated and that officials involved would be exposed with documentary evidence at the right time.
The minister said officers must remain within their administrative limits and work in the interest of the state. He added that details of the alleged irregularities would be placed before the chief minister and the party leadership. He also echoed earlier remarks made by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who had said bureaucrats should remain accountable and sensitive to the state’s priorities. Similar concerns had earlier been raised in the assembly by former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, who accused some officials of pursuing personal interests over public welfare.
However, Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi distanced himself from the allegations, describing them as overly broad. He said ministers should avoid generalised accusations and instead name individuals and present facts. Negi warned that sweeping statements could demoralise honest officers and affect administrative functioning. He said responsibility lay on both sides and called for restraint in public remarks. The exchange has once again brought the relationship between Himachal Pradesh’s political leadership and its bureaucracy into focus.
