Himachal Government resolves probe in rotten apple video
Shimla, July 31
The Himachal Pradesh Government has launched an investigation into a video posted by BJP IT cell Convenor, Amit Malviya, yesterday, which showed apple being thrown into a drain by an affected apple grower. https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1685600009012551680?t=KIoVYnpNN7VpYlqgJ4j7gg&s=03. Horticulture Minister, Jagat Singh Negi, has directed SDM Rohru to conduct a probe into the alleged video.
Amit Malviya commented, “Words are cheap. Gandhi’s are cheaper…” in response two video clips that were posted. In one clip, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi was shown accusing the BJP of neglecting apple growers, while another video showed a laborer throwing rotten apples into a drain.
In Kullu today, the Chief Minister responded to the video, stating that “BJP is trying to spread lies through social media. 100 per cent of the apples in Himachal are reaching the ‘mandis,’ and the government is working in the interest of the growers.”
Congress leader Sukhu countered the allegations, stating that heavy rains had damaged the roads, and temporary arrangements were being made to transport apples to the markets. The government is appealing to landowners to provide temporary access to connect the roads where repair work is ongoing.
Regarding frequent landslides on the four-lane highways in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu explained that it takes time for the hills to become stable after such incidents. He emphasized that the government is working to repair the damaged roads.
The controversial video was allegedly shot in a Rohru orchard, where an apple orchardist faced difficulties selling his produce due to rain-affected roads. As the early ripe apple produce required quick marketing, the farmer destroyed a couple of crates of rotten apples.
SDM Rohru visited the market yard at Rohru and found that apples from other growers were being sold without any issues. However, BJP leader Chetan Bragta from Jubbal Kotkhai reiterated the party’s allegations in a media release.
Congress leader and Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh clarified that money had already been released, and officers were deployed to restore and facilitate traffic on different sectors between Rohru to Theog and Kumersein to Theog to support the apple growers.
While inconsistent weather has played a role in delaying the harvesting of crops, this is not the first time that farmers, including apple growers, have faced such losses. In the past, similar incidents were noted during the BJP regime. Moreover, the promised drone services for farmers are still awaited. Also read: Himachal Pradesh Drone Policy, 2022 approved by CoMs/
However, it is evident that the state’s farmers, including apple growers and off-seasonal vegetable growers, have faced challenges due to incessant rain. Many roads, including major and link roads, still need repairs.
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