Row erupts over CM’s remarks on Jai Ram at private event
Political tensions have escalated in the state after former MLA of Shillai Assembly constituency Baldev Singh Tomar criticised Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for allegedly politicising a private family function attended by prominent BJP figures.
Tomar, who also serves as the BJP’s state spokesperson, called the remarks “unfortunate” and accused the Congress of attempting to divert public attention from key governance issues.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had stated that while the entire nation was mourning the tragic terrorist incident in Pahalgam, the Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur was dancing and celebrating with a ‘Pahadi Nati’ performance in Shillai Assembly constituency of Sirmaur district.
Tomar said that several senior BJP leaders, including former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, the state BJP president, MPs and other party leaders, had attended a private wedding function in his family.
“It was a traditional, culturally rooted private event. I feel fortunate that such respected leaders accepted the invitation. Twisting such a gathering into a political issue is deeply insensitive and unbecoming of the office of the Chief Minister,” he stated.
He urged the Chief Minister to clarify whether giving political colour to personal events aligns with constitutional values, cultural ethics or political decorum.
Tomar also took aim at the recent state-sponsored events organised by the Congress government, particularly the three-day ‘state-level festival’ held in Haroli from April 27 to 29.
He questioned the reported expenditure of around Rs 10 crore, alleging that public funds were used on luxurious arrangements like air-conditioned tents and performances by Bollywood and Punjabi artistes. “How does this align with the culture and financial reality of Himachal Pradesh?” he asked.
He highlighted an apparent contradiction in the Haroli event where an anti-drug road show was held while performers with songs promoting alcohol and gun culture were invited to the main stage. “This raises questions about the government’s policy direction and consistency,” Tomar remarked.
Tomar also criticised the government’s ‘Meva Utsav’ and other public exhibitions, alleging extravagance in the absence of substantial development work. He claimed that since taking office, the government has borrowed over Rs 2,200 crore in the current fiscal year alone, with no significant relief for citizens. “The government must explain how it plans to make Himachal self-reliant by 2027 in light of growing debt,” he said.
In a pointed conclusion, Tomar cautioned Congress leaders against politicising private matters and urged them to focus on core issues affecting the public. “The people of Himachal are watching closely. The Congress will have to answer for its actions in due course,” he said.
Himachal Tribune