Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri Slams BJP Over National Herald Advertisement Row

Shimla, April 22:
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri launched a sharp attack on the BJP over the issue of government advertisements given to the National Herald newspaper. He alleged that the previous BJP government had spent crores of rupees on advertisements for media outlets aligned with its ideology — including even ABVP publications. “The BJP has no moral ground to question the Congress on this matter,” he said.

Recalling the historical significance of the National Herald, Agnihotri emphasized its vital role during India’s freedom struggle, defending the paper’s legacy and dismissing the criticism as politically motivated.

On another front, Agnihotri refuted Punjab’s claim over the Shanan Project, asserting that the Himachal Pradesh government is firmly defending its rights. He clarified that the project is Himachal’s legitimate property and has no connection to the division of assets during the Punjab Reorganization. “Punjab must first explain when Mandi was ever a part of Punjab,” he stated, calling Punjab’s claim completely unfounded. He expressed confidence that the Supreme Court verdict would favor Himachal Pradesh.

During his tour of Chamba, the Deputy Chief Minister also responded to a recent remark by Union Minister JP Nadda regarding the Bulk Drug Park. Agnihotri noted that the Himachal government maintains a positive stance on the project, but suggested that the Union Minister had been misinformed, which led to his misleading statement.