BJP Raises Concerns Over Fairness of Elections in Himachal
Political tensions in Himachal Pradesh continue to rise as a delegation of BJP leaders, led by former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and state BJP President Rajiv Bindal, met Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Lok Bhawan in Shimla. The leaders expressed their concerns over what they described as interference by the ruling Congress government in ongoing Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Body elections.
In a memorandum submitted to the Governor, the BJP alleged that the state government is exerting both administrative and political pressure in an attempt to influence the electoral process. The delegation urged the Governor to take note of these concerns and ensure that elections are conducted fairly and transparently.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Jai Ram Thakur accused the government of violating the Model Code of Conduct. He claimed that a Cabinet meeting was held during the election period and that several decisions were taken with the intention of swaying voters. “The government is determined to win the elections by any means,” he said, expressing strong disapproval of the timing and nature of these decisions.
Thakur also alleged that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been actively campaigning during the elections, announcing development projects worth crores of rupees. According to him, promises of financial grants—such as ₹50 lakh per project for urban local bodies after a Congress-backed victory—are being used to influence voters.
Another issue raised by the BJP relates to recent changes in election procedures. Thakur pointed out that earlier, there was a clear rule requiring a seven-day notice period for the election of Presidents and Vice-Presidents in Urban Local Bodies. However, he claimed that this provision has now been altered, giving officials greater discretionary powers. The BJP fears this change could open the door to possible manipulation.
Echoing these concerns, BJP state president Rajiv Bindal alleged that the government is misusing state machinery to tilt the election in its favour. He said that such actions undermine the democratic process and called for strict adherence to election norms.
The developments highlight the growing political friction in the state as elections approach. While the BJP has raised serious allegations, the matter now rests with the authorities to examine and ensure that the democratic process remains fair and credible.
