Mandi Will Remain BJP Stronghold, Claims Jairam Thakur; Slams State Government.
Shimla:
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur on Monday asserted that the Mandi Municipal Corporation has always been a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) bastion and will continue to remain so. Addressing a press conference in Mandi along with 15 party candidates, he expressed confidence in BJP’s victory in the upcoming civic polls.
Thakur alleged that the present state government led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has consistently discriminated against Mandi district. He claimed that the people of Mandi are now prepared to give a “befitting reply” to what he described as neglect and step-motherly treatment. “If the government had its way, it would erase Mandi from the map of Himachal Pradesh,” he remarked, accusing the ruling Congress of political bias.
Highlighting development works during the previous BJP regime, Thakur said that Rs. 15 crore had been sanctioned for Mandi Municipal Corporation’s development, which he alleged was withdrawn after the change in power. He added that the people of the district have endured repeated “insults” under the current administration and are now ready to respond through their votes.
Criticising the state government’s performance, Thakur said the past three-and-a-half years have left people across Himachal Pradesh disillusioned. He pointed out that even Congress leaders have begun openly criticising their own government, citing recent remarks by as an example. He warned that the Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues should “mend their ways” before it is too late.
Taking a sharp dig at the Congress leadership, Thakur also claimed that wherever Chief Minister Sukhu campaigned as a star campaigner, the party faced defeat, calling it evidence of “failed leadership.” He further cautioned government officials against acting in violation of rules to please political leadership, warning of consequences in the future.
Describing Mandi Municipal Corporation as an “impregnable fort” of the BJP, Thakur reiterated that the party’s flag would continue to fly high in the region. He said the upcoming municipal and panchayat elections are not merely local contests but the beginning of a larger political movement to oust the Congress government from the state.
Earlier, Thakur inaugurated the Paddal ward office and the party’s district media centre. He also held a meeting with party leaders and candidates to strategise for the elections, projecting unity and determination among BJP ranks. Several senior leaders and office-bearers were present during the press conference.
