Jija – Sala Feud: Bikram Thakur's Role in Sukhu's Downfall

The Newz Radar

Dharamshala/Shimla: The political landscape of Himachal Pradesh witnessed a significant upheaval as the feud between Congress Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and BJP leader Bikram Thakur escalated, eventually leading to by-elections on nine assembly seats.

The battleground is once again set to witness a fierce clash between Sukhu and Bikram Thakur, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political history.

Tensions Mount

Sukhu, elected for a fourth term, took oath as Chief Minister on December 11, 2022. However, tensions arose within days when Bikram Thakur openly criticized Sukhu on various issues on January 9, 2023, including the increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) and the de-notification of institutes.

The relationship between Sukhu and Bikram further took an odd turn as they publicly spoke against each other, with Bikram being accused of orchestrating slogans against Sukhu’s wife, Kamlesh Kumari. Despite clarifying that he respects Sukhu as his brother-in-law, Bikram faced a complaint lodged by the Congress, urging an FIR on this issue.

Mining Scam Allegations

Sukhu later announced that a 100 crore mining scam took place in Himachal during BJP regime. He targeted Bikram who industries minister in BJP’s regime. The feud between Sukhu and Bikram intensified during the Rajya Sabha elections, dealing a major blow to Sukhu’s government as he lost to the BJP despite commanding the support of 43 MLAs.

Open Opposition

Bikram Thakur, in charge of the Hamirpur parliamentary constituency, Sukhu’s home turf, witnessed six MLAs – Rajinder Rana, Chaitnya Sharma, Ashish Sharma, Hoshiyar Singh, Devinder Butto, and Inderdutt Lakhanpal – openly opposing the Sukhu government.

The Battle Ahead

In the current scenario, all six of these MLAs are contesting from the Hamirpur parliamentary constituency, setting the stage for another intense political battle between Sukhu and Bikram Thakur. The BJP’s victory hinges on securing all nine seats, including the six disqualified MLAs and three independent MLAs, to form the government.

Bikram Thakur’s Crucial Role

Bikram Thakur was the only BJP leader who constantly stood by disqualified MLAs, right from their expulsion – till their joining. Now, If the BJP comes to power, Bikram Thakur is poised to play a crucial role once again. Sources indicate that he was the sole leader who stood by the disqualified MLAs throughout, acting as a liaison between the BJP and them. Along with Rakesh Jamwal and Tirlok Jamwal.