Jairam Thakur Accuses Sukhu Government of Favouritism in Appointments, Slams Industrial Policy
Shimla, October 28: Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur on Wednesday accused the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government of favouring close associates in appointments and service extensions, alleging that merit, transparency and established procedures were being compromised.
Welcoming recent High Court rulings concerning the service extension of a senior Public Works Department (PWD) official and the cancellation of the selection process for the chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (HPERC), Thakur alleged that the decisions had raised serious questions about the government’s functioning.
He claimed that the HPERC selection committee had assessed candidates’ qualifications and experience after interviews and recommended candidates, but the process was subsequently cancelled. He alleged that the move was intended to accommodate a preferred candidate. Thakur also referred to a court order concerning a Jal Shakti Department official’s service extension, saying the court had raised concerns about the officer’s service record and restricted him from being assigned important work.
‘No Clear Industrial Policy’
Thakur also criticised the state government over industrial policy, claiming that Himachal Pradesh currently lacked a clear and effective policy framework for the sector. He said the previous industrial policy had expired on December 31 last year and its validity had been extended three times.
According to Thakur, more than 30,000 small and large industrial units were facing uncertainty because of the lack of a long-term policy. He accused the government of failing to take effective measures to support industry and urged it to introduce a new policy to provide clarity to businesses and protect employment.
Meets Hatti Community, Arki Delegations
Earlier, Thakur met a delegation of the Hatti community at his official residence in the presence of former Shillai MLA Baldev Tomar. The meeting focused on issues concerning the community. Thakur said efforts made during the previous BJP government had contributed to securing Scheduled Tribe status for the Hatti community after a prolonged struggle.
He also met a delegation from the Arki Assembly constituency at the Leader of Opposition’s office. The delegation included Solan BJP district president Ratanpal Singh and former MLA Govind Ram Sharma. Discussions focused on local problems and development-related issues.
The allegations against the state government were made by Thakur in a press statement.
