Shimla, April 25
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday accused the BJP of indulging in “political drama” over the Women’s Reservation Bill issue, while responding to protests organised by the BJP Mahila Morcha in the state.
Sukhu said the bill was passed in 2023 with support from Congress and questioned the basis of the BJP’s ongoing protests. He alleged that the opposition party was attempting to gain political attention despite having earlier supported conditions for implementation.
The Chief Minister said the BJP appears unwilling to ensure the timely implementation of the 33 per cent reservation for women and had earlier linked it to delimitation and an increase in parliamentary seats. He further alleged that the party was using protests in Himachal Pradesh to divert public attention.
He also accused the BJP of not raising protests during earlier issues, including natural disasters in the state, the suspension of certain rural electrification works under RGGVY, and the Centre’s announced financial assistance package of Rs 1500 crore for Himachal Pradesh. According to Sukhu, the party was now engaging in what he described as diversionary politics.
On the shifting of the gynaecology ward from Kamla Nehru Hospital, Sukhu said the decision was taken to improve healthcare facilities for women at IGMC Shimla. He added that opposition to the move through protests was not justified, as it was aimed at strengthening medical services.
Responding to an FIR registered against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, the Chief Minister said there were attempts to suppress his voice. He asserted that the Congress party would not be intimidated and stood firmly with its national president.
