CHAMBA: Striking a aggressive tone against the Opposition, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday declared that his government will not spare anyone who has accumulated illegal wealth through corruption, regardless of how influential they might be.
Addressing a press conference during his three-day tour to Chamba, the Chief Minister raised questions over the assets of BJP MLAs, stating that anyone who has amassed property worth crores must present legitimate sources of income to the public and investigative agencies. He alleged that certain individuals entered politics solely to multiply their personal wealth, which his administration would not tolerate.
Assets to Be Seized for Social Causes
Underlining his government’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, CM Sukhu made a major announcement regarding property confiscation. He stated that assets acquired through corrupt means will be seized under the law and repurposed for social welfare. The funds and property will be directed toward supporting the poor, widows, destitute children, and needy students.
During the press meet, Sukhu also highlighted his government’s relief efforts during the severe rains and landslides that hit the state. He recalled how roads were restored on a war footing and helicopter services were operated continuously for 14 days to rescue stranded people and supply relief material to remote areas.
Focusing on local development, the CM reiterated that education and healthcare remain his top priorities. He emphasized that the Chamba Medical College project has been given utmost priority, with the current government taking consistent steps to provide required resources and modern facilities to operationalize various departments.
Probe Based on Facts, Not Vendetta
Responding to statements by Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur regarding ongoing probes, Sukhu clarified that investigations are not politically motivated. He argued that if an individual suddenly possesses assets worth Rs 50 crore or Rs 100 crore, an inquiry is a natural legal course. Anyone with valid income details should simply step forward and submit them, he added.
Dismissing reports regarding rift with Congress Himachal in-charge Rajani Patil, the Chief Minister termed them baseless rumors. He stated that Patil and senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi appreciate the functioning of the state government. Sukhu accused the BJP of resorting to social media rumors to distract public attention from FIRs and corruption cases filed against its own leaders.
Cabinet Expansion and Teacher Recruitment Soon
Addressing questions on his recent Delhi visit and potential cabinet expansion, CM Sukhu acknowledged high-level discussions on the matter. He indicated that the Himachal cabinet will be expanded and reshuffled as needed in the coming days, though he refrained from disclosing specific names.
On the long-pending recruitment of Physical Education Teachers (PET), the Chief Minister assured candidates that the process will be completed swiftly to promote sports culture in schools. Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Pathania and Chamba MLA Neeraj Nayar were also present during the press conference.
