No Objection to Pratibha Singh Continuing as State Congress Chief; Cabinet Expansion Soon: CM Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Shimla, June 25: Amidst the BJP’s nationwide campaign marking the Emergency as a “black day” for democracy, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu countered the narrative, saying that it was the Congress that laid the foundation of democracy and drafted the Constitution. “The BJP is today observing a ‘democracy murder day’ while enjoying power granted by the same democratic Constitution,” Sukhu remarked. “They are insulting the very system that enabled their rise to power.”
Commenting on the onset of the monsoon in Himachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister assured that the state government has made all necessary preparations to manage the season effectively. He urged tourists not to be afraid and invited them to visit the state during the monsoon. “Last year, even during heavy monsoon damage, we safely evacuated thousands of tourists,” he said. “Visitors should enjoy the scenic beauty of the cities and stay away from riverbanks and landslide-prone areas.”
Amid speculation over a change in the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) leadership, CM Sukhu expressed full support for Pratibha Singh continuing as the party’s state president. “She has done commendable work in her role. If the party decides to retain her as president, I have no objection,” Sukhu stated. He also confirmed that a cabinet expansion will take place soon.
Addressing long-standing inter-state issues, the Chief Minister took aim at the Centre and neighbouring states over Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects. He emphasized that although the Supreme Court has ruled in Himachal Pradesh’s favour, the state is yet to receive its due share, even after 14 years. “Punjab and Haryana keep creating hurdles,” he said. “We are fighting for our rightful claim of 12% free royalty from BBMB projects, just as SJVNL and NHPC provide.”
He added that the Congress government has raised the issue with the Centre and asserted, “Had Himachal received its rightful dues from BBMB, it would have become a far more prosperous state by now.”
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