TNR News Network
Dharamshala: Former Himachal Pradesh Industries Minister and senior BJP leader Bikram Thakur has launched a sharp attack on the Sukhu-led Congress government, alleging large-scale financial irregularities, forced collections and corruption in the name of the Kangra Valley Karnival.
Thakur claimed that the government is systematically pushing the state towards a “donation regime,” where even official events are no longer funded through the budget but instead through money extracted from traders and the public. He described this as not only the height of economic mismanagement but also a collapse of administrative ethics.
Key Allegations
- Forced Contributions: Traders were reportedly asked to provide “financial support” for the carnival. Following public pressure, the administration issued a notification halting the collections.
- Unanswered Questions: Thakur demanded clarity on how much money was collected during this period, into which account it was deposited, and how it was spent. He urged the Kangra Deputy Commissioner to release a white paper to bring transparency.
- Evidence of Pressure: A letter from the district civil supplies controller that went viral on social media, Thakur said, proves the collections were carried out under government knowledge and protection. He stressed this was not voluntary cooperation but coercion under administrative pressure.
- Event Management Irregularities: Thakur alleged that performers were hired at fixed rates but inflated bills were submitted, causing losses to the state exchequer. Shops, rides, and other commercial facilities were also rented out at arbitrary rates.
Broader Criticism
Thakur accused the Congress government of crying about financial crisis while simultaneously organizing lavish events to benefit its close circle. He said that in three years of Congress rule, development has stalled, job opportunities have dried up, and now the trading community is being targeted.
Warning of Protest
The BJP leader warned that if the government does not immediately stop such collections and corruption, and fails to take strict action against those responsible, the BJP will launch a decisive struggle “from the streets to the Assembly” to protect the interests of traders and the public.
