Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Accuses BJP of ‘Political Drama’ Over Women’s Reservation Bill

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday launched a strong political attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of playing “political games” over the Women’s Reservation Bill for electoral advantage.

Addressing the media, Sukhu said that the Congress had already extended its support to the Women’s Reservation Bill introduced in 2023. However, he pointed out that the Bill clearly states that its implementation depends on the completion of the national census and the delimitation process.

The Chief Minister alleged that the BJP is now trying to push the delimitation agenda under the cover of the Bill, which has raised concerns among several Opposition parties. “The BJP’s stance is not genuine. It is a calculated move aimed at gaining political mileage,” Sukhu said, adding that protests by BJP leaders in Himachal are merely symbolic and politically motivated.

Questions Raised Over BJP’s Role During 2023 Disaster

Taking a sharp dig at the BJP’s state leadership, Sukhu questioned their silence during the devastating monsoon of 2023, which caused massive destruction across Himachal Pradesh. He claimed that the party neither pressured the Centre for adequate financial aid nor followed up on the ₹1,500 crore relief reportedly announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“This clearly shows their priorities. When the state was suffering, they chose silence over action,” Sukhu remarked.

Congress Stands Firm Amid FIR Row

The Chief Minister also addressed the recent FIR filed against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, calling it an attempt to intimidate political opponents. He emphasized that such actions would not weaken the Opposition.

“The Congress party stands united with Kharge. We are not afraid of such tactics,” Sukhu asserted, signaling strong resistance against what he described as political vendetta.

Government Defends Healthcare Decision

On the administrative front, Sukhu defended the government’s decision to shift the Gynaecology OPD to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla. He explained that the move was made to enhance patient care by providing access to advanced diagnostic tools and modern robotic surgery facilities.

According to the Chief Minister, the equipment at Kamla Nehru Hospital had become outdated, making the shift necessary. He also highlighted that separate mother-and-child healthcare facilities are a common practice across India.

Despite protests from doctors, Sukhu made it clear that the decision would not be reversed. “This is in the larger interest of patients. I urge the medical community to reconsider their stance,” he said.

Congress Reaffirms Commitment to Women’s Representation

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan backed the Chief Minister’s statements, accusing the BJP of hypocrisy. He reiterated that the Congress has consistently supported women’s empowerment and political representation.

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