Shimla/Bilaspur, Dec 11
In a rally commemorating two years of Congress rule at Lahuno Ground, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri dismissed speculations regarding the stability of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government. He urged government officers to focus on public service instead of engaging in unwarranted predictions about the government’s tenure.
Agnihotri took aim at detractors, particularly the BJP, asserting that “Mission Lotus” had failed. He confidently stated, “The Congress government will not only complete its five-year term but will also return to power in the next election. Bureaucratic whispers about the government’s longevity will not topple it.”
Countering Financial crisis allegations
Responding to claims by former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur about the state being financially paralyzed, Agnihotri challenged him to prove otherwise. “If Mr. Thakur can show a single instance where HRTC drivers or conductors have not been paid, I will step down. Since he cannot, perhaps it is time for him to resign from spreading baseless accusations,” he declared.
Debunking the “Toilet Tax” claim
Taking a jibe at Thakur’s remarks on alleged taxation of pressure cookers and public toilets, Agnihotri said, “If Mr. Thakur is so fascinated with the idea of a toilet tax, perhaps he should sit in one and calculate his imaginary figures. Our government focuses on building infrastructure, not manufacturing political distractions.”
Public transport overhaul and development Plans
The Deputy Chief Minister outlined plans to modernize the state’s transport system, announcing a Rs 700 crore project to replace the aging fleet of 2,400 buses with electric ones. He highlighted the Congress government’s role in completing the Theog Bus Stand project, which he said the BJP was wrongly taking credit for.
He also revealed a Rs 2,000 crore ropeway project for Shimla, aimed at enhancing mobility and creating a benchmark for urban infrastructure. Agnihotri emphasized that the Congress is focused on future development, contrasting it with what he described as the BJP’s tendency to dwell on past achievements.
Preservation of state assets
Addressing allegations about the sale of public properties, Agnihotri assured that no HPTDC properties, including the iconic Wildflower Hall, would be sold under Congress rule. He accused the BJP of attempting to sell public assets during its tenure, referencing the Global Investors’ Meet as an example.
Tackling unemployment
On addressing unemployment, Agnihotri announced that results of the Hamirpur Subordinate Services Commission exams would be declared within a month. He criticized the BJP for leaving behind a legacy of debt and unemployment, contrasting it with the Congress’s vision of creating jobs and fostering growth.
Asserting the Congress government’s stability, Agnihotri reminded the BJP of the two successful years in power. “Instead of plotting the downfall of our government, the BJP should focus on rebuilding its own position. Himachal has no place for their politics of negativity,” he concluded.
With strong rhetoric and an ambitious roadmap, the Deputy CM reinforced the Congress’s commitment to governance and development in the state.
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