Jai Ram Thakur Criticizes Himachal Pradesh Government for Misusing Power
Munish Sood
MANDI:
Jai Ram Thakur, the former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and current Leader of Opposition, has accused the Congress-led government under Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of abusing its authority, intimidating dissenters, and even filing police complaints against young schoolgirls who raised concerns about mismanagement during a government event.
Press Conference Highlights
During a press conference held in Mandi on October 7, 2025, Thakur expressed that the Chief Minister appears to be overly focused on filing FIRs, allegedly acting under the influence of minor local leaders. He claimed that anyone who dares to question the government's shortcomings is subjected to police harassment or legal action.
FIRs Filed Against Schoolgirls
Thakur criticized the government for filing FIRs against schoolgirls who merely complained about the lack of food at an official event. He stated, “These girls were forced to sit in the sun for hours. Instead of addressing their concerns, the administration chose to file a case against them.”
Pattern of Intimidation
The former Chief Minister noted that this behavior has become a trend, where journalists who challenge the government face police repercussions, opposition leaders are targeted with legal cases, and social media is exploited to defame critics. He remarked, “The government aims to silence any dissenting voices.”
Describing Government Actions as Dictatorial
Thakur labeled the current government's operations as 'dictatorial and ineffective,' warning that authoritarian regimes do not end well. He reminded the Chief Minister that every misuse of power is being documented and that officials acting as political tools will eventually be held accountable for their decisions.
Corruption Allegations in Disaster Relief
He accused the Sukhu administration of corruption in managing disaster relief efforts, claiming that debris from recent calamities remains uncleared while contractors are still being paid. “Congress leaders are profiting while the victims continue to suffer,” he alleged.
Concerns Over Fund Distribution
Thakur stated that out of the Rs 5,500 crore allocated by the Central Government for disaster relief, only Rs 300 crore has reached the affected families, with no clarity on the remaining funds. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a special relief package of Rs 1,500 crore, which the state government is reportedly misusing for administrative costs instead of aiding victims.
Administrative Concerns
The Leader of the Opposition pointed out that key administrative positions are filled by individuals in temporary roles. “The Chief Secretary, DGP, and other significant officials are all in acting positions,” he noted, suggesting that the Chief Minister has lost control over appointments and is surrounded by self-serving officials.
Dissatisfaction Among Ministers
Thakur claimed that even ministers within the Congress government are unhappy but fear speaking out. “We warned the Chief Minister that his current path would lead to isolation. Now, even his colleagues are uncomfortable with his leadership style,” he stated.
Humanitarian Concerns Raised
He also raised a humanitarian issue regarding the halt in the reconstruction of a road destroyed in a disaster 15 years ago, questioning the government's lack of sensitivity. “The High Court's orders are clear. Three individuals lost their lives there. Has the government lost all sense of morality?” he asked.