BJP Fought Up to Supreme Court to Ensure Panchayat Polls: Jairam Thakur

Solan, October 5: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur accused the Sukhu government of making efforts to delay Panchayati Raj elections and claimed that the BJP fought the issue up to the Supreme Court to ensure that elections were held.

Addressing a felicitation programme for newly elected Panchayati Raj representatives from the Baddi-Doon Assembly area at Baddi, Thakur said the election of representatives was a reflection of democratic participation. He urged the newly elected members to focus on development and public service.

Thakur also criticised the state government over what he described as problems of governance, law and order and development in the Baddi-Doon industrial belt. He alleged that the government was prioritising the interests of its associates instead of addressing issues affecting the region.

At Nalagarh, Thakur alleged that the state government’s policies were discouraging industries and affecting investment and employment prospects. He claimed that industries were facing multiple taxes and alleged irregularities in the allocation of industrial plots and the deployment of certain officials.

He also raised concerns over pollution in the industrial area and claimed that protests by local residents were continuing. Thakur said industrial migration could adversely affect investment, revenue and employment opportunities in the state.

He called upon BJP workers and newly elected Panchayati Raj representatives to remain united and raise issues concerning the public before the people.