Jairam Thakur Says Congress Defeat in Local Polls Reflects Public Discontent

Shimla, June 1: Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur on Sunday claimed that the Congress government had attempted to delay local body and Panchayati Raj elections because it anticipated an adverse electoral outcome.

In a statement issued from Shimla, Thakur alleged that despite efforts to postpone the polls, elections were ultimately conducted following directions from the Supreme Court. He claimed that the results reflected widespread public dissatisfaction with the state government and asserted that BJP-backed candidates performed strongly across municipal corporations, Zila Parishads, Panchayat Samitis and local bodies.

Thakur thanked voters for supporting BJP-supported candidates and expressed confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and policies. He further urged the state government to focus on public welfare, effective implementation of central schemes and proper utilization of funds received from the Centre.

The BJP leader also questioned the government’s decision to once again assign the post of Chief Secretary on an additional-charge basis, alleging that key administrative positions were being run through temporary arrangements instead of regular appointments.