Shimla, July 11,
The Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Himachal Pradesh Cabinet’s decision to partially privatize 14 hotels under the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has not only ignited a fierce political battle with the opposition but has also brought simmering intra-government tensions into the public domain. The most visible sign of this internal strife is the direct contradiction from none other than HPTDC Chairman Raghubir Singh Bali, who has reportedly publicly disavowed any role of the HPTDC board in proposing the move.
The Cabinet’s recent approval to outsource the operation and maintenance of these HPTDC properties, many of which are currently incurring losses, has been met with immediate and vocal opposition from Bali. In a press conference, Bali categorically stated that “no proposal was sent by the HPTDC Board of Directors to the government regarding the privatization of these hotels.” This statement directly challenges the narrative behind the Cabinet’s decision, suggesting a significant disconnect or lack of consultation at the highest levels of governance.
Sources indicate that the government’s move comes in the context of an earlier Himachal Pradesh High Court scrutiny into the financial health of HPTDC. The High Court had previously issued directives and even ordered the closure of some loss-making units, emphasizing the need for the corporation to become financially viable and clear its dues, particularly to retired employees. While the Cabinet’s decision might be seen as a response to these judicial pressures, Bali’s public dissent points to a profound disagreement over the chosen path.
Bali, seen as a close confidante of Chief Minister Sukhu, has now openly appealed to the CM to reconsider the decision. He argues for a thorough financial feasibility study by HPTDC’s own consultants before any privatization, asserting that many hotels, though currently loss-making, could become profitable with focused renovation and management. Bali highlighted that HPTDC has managed its affairs and cleared liabilities over the past two and a half years without a single rupee in government grants, underscoring his belief in the corporation’s inherent capacity.
The public discord is further fueled by the widespread opposition from HPTDC employees, who fear job losses and negative impacts on their working conditions. Reportedly, these employees have met with Bali and are seeking an audience with the Chief Minister to express their strong reservations against the privatization and also against the proposed shifting of the HPTDC headquarters.
The BJP has seized upon the controversy, lambasting the Sukhu government with accusations of “Himachal on Sale,” further amplifying the public nature of these internal disagreements.
The unfolding events leave many questions unanswered about the transparency and cohesion within the state’s administration. As both internal and external pressures mount, the government faces a critical test of its leadership and decision-making processes.
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.
