Historic Rule 67 adjournment motion stalls Himachal Winter Session
Old photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Dec 18,
On the opening day of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha’s winter session, Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania accepted an adjournment motion under Rule 67, presented by BJP MLA Randhir Sharma, temporarily suspending Question Hour. This marks only the second instance of an adjournment motion being allowed under this rule.
During the motion, Randhir Sharma accused the two-year-old Congress government of being involved in irregularities related to the excise policy, tenders, land deals, and alleged attempts to sell state assets. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu intervened, demanding documentary evidence to substantiate the allegations. In response, Sharma laid a copy of a memorandum submitted by the BJP to the Governor on December 11, 2024. However, Speaker Pathania clarified that the document merely contained accusations and could not be considered valid evidence for discussion.
As debates intensified, Chief Minister Sukhu criticized the absence of Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur, stating that some of the issues pertain to the former Chief Minister’s tenure. Sukhu asserted that discussions of this nature require the presence of all key leaders in the House.
The session grew chaotic as BJP members were unable to present the requisite documents to back their claims. This led to a ten-minute adjournment to restore order.
When BJP MLA Balbir Singh Verma raised allegations about timber smuggling, referencing media reports, the Speaker ruled that news clippings could not serve as admissible evidence under Rule 67. The Speaker reiterated that discussions must be based on substantiated facts.
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the need for serious deliberation, urging members not to level baseless accusations against the government without credible evidence.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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