Shimla/Dharamshala: In a move that has captured the attention of the entire state, Gokul Butail, principal adviser to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has opted to forgo his salary for the financial year 2024-25.
The decision, which has been widely praised across social media, has led many to question why the Chief Minister himself did not take the initiative first, potentially missing a significant opportunity to boost his popularity.
Butail, who holds a Cabinet-rank position as principal adviser (innovation, digital technologies and governance), sent a letter to the Chief Secretary, stating his intent to draw only a symbolic Re 1 salary for the upcoming financial year. The letter went viral almost immediately, sparking a wave of admiration and support from the public.
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Flood of reactions on social media
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions to Butail’s decision, with users commending his sacrifice and urging other leaders in the ruling party to follow suit.
One user commented, “Gokul Butail has set an example that every politician should follow, especially in these financially challenging times for the state. If he can do it, why can’t others?”
Another remarked, “Sukhu missed a golden opportunity here. This could have been his moment to show that he truly cares about the financial health of Himachal. Instead, Butail is getting all the credit.”
A third user pointed out, “If our leaders really want to see Himachal prosper, they should all be willing to make sacrifices like this. It’s not just about one person; it’s about setting a standard for the whole administration.”
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Leader of Opposition raises concerns
Amid the public praise for Butail, the Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur has raised his own concerns, albeit on a different note. He recently criticised the state government for failing to provide him with a suitable vehicle, citing the financial crunch as the reason.
“If the state is truly in such dire financial straits, perhaps the ruling party leaders should lead by example and relinquish some of their own perks and benefits,” he stated. His comment has resonated with the public, many of whom are now questioning whether BJP leaders, too, should forgo some of their financial privileges.
Missed opportunity for Sukhu
Political analysts believe that Sukhu’s advisers may have missed a strategic opportunity to enhance the Chief Minister’s standing with the public. By allowing Butail to take the lead, Sukhu has inadvertently ceded a significant amount of goodwill that could have bolstered his image as a leader committed to financial discipline and the welfare of the state.
In a state where financial challenges are increasingly coming to the forefront, Butail’s gesture has struck a chord with the people, and the ripple effects are being felt across the political spectrum. Whether other leaders will follow Butail’s example remains to be seen, but the message is clear: the public is watching, and they expect their leaders to share in the sacrifices required to bring the state out of its financial difficulties.
