Naresh Chauhan, Principal Advisor (Media) to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for organising the ‘Halla Bol’ rally during the ongoing Budget Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly.
He termed the rally as a futile exercise aimed at diverting public attention from pressing state issues, accusing the BJP of fostering chaos, disruption, and anarchy instead of engaging in constructive discussions.
Chauhan stated that the state Assembly serves as the appropriate forum for legislators to engage in meaningful deliberations on governance and public welfare.
However, rather than utilising this platform, the Opposition chose to boycott the session and create an atmosphere of disorder outside the Assembly. He asserted that the BJP’s allegations against the state government, particularly regarding an alleged ‘mafia raj,’ were unfounded and baseless.
He emphasised that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, along with Ministers and Congress MLAs, had already provided a detailed response within the Assembly, outlining the government’s stance, commitments, and future plans for the state's development.
BJP’s Rally Reflects Frustration and Isolation
The Principal Advisor further criticized the BJP’s actions, claiming that the rally showcased the party’s intellectual bankruptcy and deep frustration stemming from its inadequate representation in the Assembly.
He remarked that the event also demonstrated the BJP’s growing political isolation, both inside and outside the House, while reaffirming that public support continues to favor the Congress-led government.
Taking a direct swipe at the Opposition, Chauhan alleged that the so-called ‘mafia raj’ that the BJP is now raising concerns about had actually thrived under its own rule. He pointed out that ever since the Congress government assumed office, stringent legal actions have been taken against criminal elements, leading to the marginalisation of mafias.
He further accused the BJP of being uncomfortable with the current administration’s crackdown on illicit activities, which he described as a much-needed step towards ensuring law and order in the state.
Also Read: Himachal to introduce strict Bill against 'chitta' smuggling
Government’s firm stance against drug trafficking and organised crime
Highlighting the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating organised crime, Chauhan detailed several measures taken to combat drug trafficking. He emphasised that the government has implemented strict policies, including provisions for the confiscation of properties belonging to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade.
He also underscored a significant legislative development—the introduction of the Himachal Pradesh Organised Crimes (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2025, during the Budget Session.
This bill, he noted, prescribes the death penalty or life imprisonment for drug traffickers and includes financial penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh. Additionally, it addresses a wide spectrum of organised crimes, including illegal mining, deforestation, wildlife trafficking, human organ trade, hazardous waste dumping, financial fraud, cybercrime, extortion, forgery, food adulteration, and match-fixing.
Also Read: Mafia flourishing in Congress rule in HP: BJP
Congress government’s commitment to good governance and transparency
Reiterating the Congress government’s dedication to a corruption-free and mafia-free administration, Chauhan highlighted decisive actions taken against recruitment malpractices. He mentioned the government’s crackdown on paper-leak mafias, which had undermined the integrity of recruitment processes.
To ensure transparency and fairness, the administration dissolved the corruption-tainted Himachal Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Board and replaced it with a newly constituted State Selection Commission.
Concluding his remarks, Chauhan asserted that the Congress government remains steadfast in its commitment to good governance, transparency, and public welfare.
He emphasised that no amount of political theatrics or disruptive tactics employed by the BJP will hinder the government’s resolve to fulfill its promises to the people of Himachal Pradesh.
Also Read: BJP to protest 'mafia raj' in Himachal on March 27: Bindal
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