Sunil Chadha
Baddi: A social media exchange involving Doon MLA Ram Kumar Chaudhary has sparked controversy after the legislator appeared to use a threatening and confrontational tone while responding to a citizen’s comment questioning his recent post about the declaration of a local holiday for Chhath Puja in the Baddi industrial area of Himachal Pradesh.
Chaudhary, in a Facebook post on October 26, announced that October 27 would be observed as a local holiday for industrial and factory workers in Baddi to celebrate Chhath Puja — a festival significant to the Purvanchal community working in the region’s industrial sector.
The MLA credited the declaration to his efforts and extended festive greetings to all.
However, the post attracted mixed reactions.
Among the commenters was Jaswant Rai Keshav, who downplayed the announcement, saying such holidays had been granted earlier as well and criticized the MLA for focusing on “minor achievements” instead of addressing core issues such as poor roads, water supply, and basic infrastructure in Doon and Baddi.
“People need development, not symbolic announcements. The time for fear-based politics is over,” Keshav wrote.
In a sharp retort, Chaudhary accused Keshav of spreading misinformation and hinted at administrative repercussions.
“If such a holiday has ever been given earlier in the Doon area or surrounding regions like Paonta, Nalagarh, or Una, share the official notification. Also, since you seem to be a government employee, learn to act properly in your job,” the MLA commented, implying disciplinary action.
The exchange quickly drew public attention, with several users criticizing the MLA’s tone as undemocratic and intimidating. Many commented that public representatives should welcome constructive criticism rather than threatening citizens.
Political observers say the episode reflects growing tensions between elected representatives and citizens on social media platforms, where public accountability and image management increasingly collide.
Meanwhile, local officials confirmed that October 27 was indeed declared a local holiday for Chhath Puja in Baddi, following requests from the MLA’s office.
