MANDI: A major political storm is brewing in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh as local leaders express growing concern over reports that the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government may relocate three key educational institutions to other districts.
According to reliable sources, the government is considering moving the Medical University from Ner Chowk and the Sardar Patel University (SPU) from Mandi to Hamirpur. Additionally, there are fears that the College of Horticulture and Forestry in Seraj subdivision of Mandi may be shifted to Kinnaur.
These potential relocations have sparked widespread fears in Mandi, with local leaders and residents rallying against what they perceive as a deliberate attempt to undermine the district’s educational infrastructure. Critics argue that these moves are politically motivated, aimed at benefiting the constituencies of certain ministers while neglecting the needs of Mandi.
Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, who represents Seraj Assembly constituency in the Vidhan Sabha, has strongly condemned the reported plans. “We have credible reports that the government is planning to relocate these institutions.
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If this happens, we will protest vigorously in the Assembly and, if necessary, take to the streets,” warned Jai Ram. He accused Chief Minister Sukhu of prioritising his home district of Hamirpur over the rest of the state, thereby neglecting Mandi’s development.
Jai Ram also criticised the broader approach of the Sukhu administration, stating, “Since coming to power, this government has focused on shutting down or relocating facilities instead of creating new ones. This is unprecedented in the history of Himachal Pradesh and it must stop.”
Chandershekhar, the lone Congress MLA from Mandi district’s Dharampur, however, dismissed the concerns as baseless rumours. “These reports are unfounded and spread by the opposition for political gain. The government is committed to the region’s development, not its detriment,” he said.
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Despite these assurances, anxiety remains high in Mandi, particularly regarding the future of the College of Horticulture and Forestry in Seraj. Reports suggest that the institution is facing a severe crisis, with staff dismissals pushing it towards potential closure.
This college, which had secured significant funding and approvals during Jai Ram’s tenure, now faces an uncertain future under the current administration. There are also reports that Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi may relocate the college to his constituency Kinnaur.
Similarly, SPU in Mandi is also under threat, with its financial operations stalled and recruitment frozen. Experts note that relocating the university would require an amendment to the existing Act, a move that would be difficult for the government to execute. Nonetheless, the possibility of such a shift has fuelled further speculation and concern among Mandi’s residents.
