Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie: The political temperature in Himachal Pradesh continues to rise over the state government’s decision to lease out 14 loss-making hotels under the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC).
After HPTDC Chairman RS Bali publicly criticised the move, 2022 Assembly election candidate from Dalhousie Manish Sareen has now stepped forward in strong support of Bali, calling him a “visionary and people-centric leader”.
Sareen’s statement adds a fresh twist to the unfolding controversy, which began when Bali expressed his opposition to the Cabinet’s decision, claiming he was neither informed nor consulted about the proposal.
Bali’s leadership unquestionable: Manish Sareen
In a detailed press release, Manish Sareen praised RS Bali’s leadership and track record, saying, “Since the day RS Bali took charge of the Tourism Department, there has been remarkable progress—whether it’s in revenue generation or repositioning HPTDC as a profitable entity. His ability and commitment to public service are beyond doubt.”
Sareen warned against attempts by “certain individuals” to misrepresent Bali’s recent remarks in a way that could suggest tension between him and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. “This is a deliberate and unfortunate attempt to sow seeds of misunderstanding,” he said.
Tourism in ‘experimental mode’, says Sareen
Acknowledging the broader tourism strategy, Sareen admitted the department may currently be in an “experimental mode”, where leasing loss-making units could be part of a long-term vision. However, he insisted that RS Bali’s insights and expertise must not be sidelined in the process.
“It is possible that this experiment proves beneficial in the future, but it is unfair to ignore the perspective of a leader like RS Bali who thinks far ahead. His experience is an asset that should guide policy decisions,” he added.
Call for expert review before final decision
Sareen urged the state government to withhold the final implementation of the hotel lease plan until an expert report — suggested by RS Bali — is completed and reviewed.
He also proposed that the government consider providing direct financial assistance to HPTDC, arguing that the loss-making hotels could be revived with proper investment and that new tourism projects could emerge as a result.
“If given the right support, HPTDC can turn these units around and lead Himachal’s tourism sector into a new era,” Sareen said, reiterating that RS Bali’s focus has always remained on public interest and the state’s long-term development.
