HP Budget Session: Debate Over Listing, Removal of Names

TNR Desk

Shimla: The third day of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly’s budget session witnessed heightened tensions as a contentious exchange unfolded between ruling party and opposition legislators. The focal point of the dispute revolved around the listing and removal of names from the roll call.

Drang MLA Raises Concerns

Drang MLA Purn Chand raised questions regarding the listing and removal of names during the session. Responding to these concerns, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the democratic principle that representatives are elected for a five-year term. He clarified that only those holding a government position or elected office will have their names listed. Absence of an elected representative will result in the exclusion of their name, with the assurance of consequences for any officer neglecting this protocol.

Supplementary Query from Sundarnagar MLA

In a supplementary question, BJP MLA Rakesh Jamwal from Sundarnagar voiced concerns about the broader implications of this issue, affecting not only Drang but also Sundarnagar. He sought clarity on whether the existing lists would be revised. CM Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu assured that such incidents would be avoided in the future.

Opposition Leader Raises Strong Objections

Opposition leader Jairam Thakur linked the matter to the sentiments of public representatives, recounting an incident at Bagshyad School where all teachers were replaced on the third day. He urged the Chief Minister to take prompt action, expressing dissatisfaction over the removal of a small list in his vicinity. Thakur called for the initiation of corrective measures.

CM’s Assurance and Call for Investigation

Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, responding to Thakur’s remarks, expressed unawareness of the list over the oak. He clarified that security staff changes had not occurred. Sukhu pledged to verify the removal of the list and assured that if such an incident had transpired, the list would be reposted. He underscored the Congress government’s commitment to winning the favor of the people and emphasized a thorough investigation into the removal of the list.