MANDI: A fresh political storm has erupted in Himachal Pradesh as sharp exchanges have broken out between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP, centred around public celebrations during a period of mourning following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 25 tourists and a local dead.
The controversy began when Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh launched a scathing attack on senior BJP leader and former CM Jai Ram Thakur for participating in public festivities.
Speaking to the media, Vikramaditya expressed deep disappointment over what he termed “insensitive behaviour” by BJP leaders.
Minister calls for stern action against terrorists
“While the entire nation is mourning the tragic loss of lives in Pahalgam, the Leader of the Opposition is seen dancing ‘nati’ (a traditional Himachali folk dance) at public events. The BJP claims to be the most patriotic party, yet its leaders are out celebrating while the country grieves,” said the minister.
Vikramaditya further alleged that the Congress, in light of the attack, had suspended all scheduled public events as a mark of respect and solidarity.
“In such moments of national tragedy, restraint and sensitivity should take precedence over celebration. National unity calls for thoughtful action,” he said.
BJP fires back, accuses Congress of double standards
Calling for a strong response from the central government, Vikramaditya emphasised the need for accountability and swift justice.
“The Congress stands shoulder to shoulder with the Centre during this difficult time. India’s 140 crore citizens are united in grief. But mere condolences are not enough. There must now be concrete action against the terrorists. This is the collective voice of the nation,” he said.
Responding forcefully, BJP’s chief spokesperson in Himachal Rakesh Jamwal accused Vikramaditya of double standards and political opportunism.
Jamwal said, “Vikramaditya points fingers at Jai Ram Thakur for dancing, but conveniently ignores the fact that his own government’s Deputy Chief Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri, has been actively celebrating the Haroli Utsav in Una.”
Jamwal highlighted that the five-day Haroli festival, which features cultural programs and nightly public gatherings, continued unabated even after the Pahalgam incident.
“Thousands have been dancing with Mukesh Agnihotri every evening. If the Congress truly cancelled all public events out of respect, why did this festival go on? Has mourning ended just five days after such a brutal terror attack?” he said.
Jamwal also pointed out that Congress MLA from Kullu and former CPS Sunder Singh Thakur not only participated as chief guest in Basant Utsav that began in Kullu on Monday, but was also seen singing with a Himachali artiste during the cultural evening, a moment he shared on social media.
Munish Sood
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