Dharamshala (TNR News Network)
In a statement issued on Thursday, BJP MLA and former Industries Minister Bikram Thakur criticized Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for his apparent disconnect with the public during his visit to Kangra.
Referrring to a stroll taken by CM in Kachehri square on Wednesday evening, Thakur described the tour as a mere “drama,” emphasizing that engaging with constituents over tea and purchasing vegetables would not restore public trust in the government.
“The political stature of the Chief Minister has fallen so low that the public is absent from his events” he aded. Thakur accused the government of implementing policies that are detrimental to the welfare of the citizens.
One of Thakur’s primary concerns is the increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2023, which he argues has severely impacted the economic conditions of residents. He pointed out that a ₹3 per liter hike in diesel prices has led to rising inflation across various transportation sectors, exacerbating the financial strain on families. “The government has ignored the people’s hardships,” he stated, highlighting a disconnect between policy decisions and their real-world implications.
Moreover, Thakur condemned the government’s environmental negligence, claiming that over 10 lakh trees have been felled during Sukhu’s tenure. He referenced recent illegal logging incidents as evidence of a broader disregard for environmental protection. “In this era of global warming, Himachal should be leading in conservation efforts,” he insisted, criticizing the government for failing to prioritize ecological sustainability.
Thakur further emphasized that simply discussing issues over tea would not resolve pressing problems faced by constituents. He stressed that youth need jobs and relief from inflation, rather than superficial engagements from their leaders. “Sukhu’s administration has lost public confidence and is facing internal dissent within the party,” he noted, suggesting that the Congress party is becoming increasingly isolated from its voter base.
