Shimla: Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has strongly responded to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s allegations of violating the Model Code of Conduct in state. Rejecting the BJP’s objections over the appointment of the Chief Secretary and the convening of a cabinet meeting, Sukhu said there was a major difference between the BJP’s words and actions.
Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, “There is a huge difference between what the Bharatiya Janata Party says and what it does. In 2020-21, when Jai Ram Thakur was the Chief Minister, Panchayati Raj, Zila Parishad and Municipal Corporation elections were held during his tenure. At that time too, cabinet meetings were convened. We have also called a cabinet meeting.”
Sukhu accused the BJP of adopting double standards and also criticised the continuous rise in fuel prices. He said the Central Government was putting an additional burden on people, while the state government was working for public convenience.
Announcing a major decision, the Chief Minister said that in Himachal Pradesh, any restaurant, bar or shop with the required capacity would now be allowed to remain open 24 hours a day. Sukhu said, “We have permitted everyone to operate round the clock. This decision is an important step towards promoting tourism and strengthening the local economy.”
On the ongoing local body elections, Sukhu expressed satisfaction over public participation. He said, “People have participated with great enthusiasm. Panchayat election results have started coming in, while counting for Zila Parishad and BDC elections will take place later.”
The Chief Minister thanked the public for their strong participation in the elections and said it reflected the strength of democracy. He also claimed that Congress candidates were receiving strong support from the people.
