Former CM Jairam Thakur Accuses Government of Concealing True Manimahesh Yatra Figures

Shimla, Sept 01 – Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, Jairam Thakur, has criticized the Sukhhu government for allegedly hiding the real numbers of pilgrims affected during the Manimahesh Yatra. Speaking in the Assembly on 1st September 2025, Thakur highlighted discrepancies between figures shared by the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister. While the government claimed that thousands of pilgrims were safely evacuated, Thakur asserted that over 15,000 pilgrims were stranded in the affected areas on 28th August.

Addressing journalists, he accused the government of failing to provide adequate arrangements, with many pilgrims walking long distances to safety. He further alleged overcharging for bus and helicopter services, questioning the government’s relief efforts. Thakur also raised concerns about delays in crucial academic and administrative schedules due to disrupted transport and communication in disaster-hit regions. He urged the government to focus on actual relief operations rather than misrepresenting facts, emphasizing the role of legislators and local officials in providing on-ground assistance to stranded pilgrims.