BJP Releases Detailed Charge Sheet Against Himachal Pradesh Government Ahead of Mandi Municipal Elections.
Shimla:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday released a detailed charge sheet against the Himachal Pradesh government in connection with the upcoming Mandi Municipal Corporation elections. BJP leaders alleged that the state government had failed to address key issues related to development, infrastructure, disaster management, and civic administration in Mandi district over the past three-and-a-half years.
The charge sheet was released by BJP state chief spokesperson and MLA Rakesh Jamwal in the presence of BJP state general secretary and election in-charge Payal Vaidya, district president Nihal Chand, media in-charge Rakesh Walia, and Panchayati Raj Cell state co-convener Pal Verma.
Addressing the media, Rakesh Jamwal said that the people of Mandi had faced administrative delays, civic challenges, and stalled development projects during the tenure of the present government. He stated that the BJP aimed to place what it described as the “ground reality” before the public ahead of the municipal elections.
Concerns Raised Over Disaster Response
Jamwal referred to the natural disaster that affected Mandi in 2025 and alleged that the government’s response was inadequate. He said that the disaster resulted in the deaths of 14 people, while 31 individuals went missing and more than 150 houses suffered damage. According to him, senior officials and ministers took considerable time to visit the affected areas.
The BJP leader also claimed that several roads remained blocked for extended periods and rehabilitation efforts were delayed, creating difficulties for local residents.
Drinking Water Crisis Highlighted
The BJP accused the government of failing to resolve the drinking water crisis faced by residents during 2024 and 2025. Jamwal said nearly 35 drinking water schemes were affected and around 75 percent of water sources dried up during the period.
He stated that damage to pipelines connected to the Uhl River and Madhyani Nallah disrupted water supply in several localities, including Bijni, Tarna, Jail Road, Souli Khad, Ram Nagar, Purani Mandi, and Bhuyli. Residents in these areas reportedly faced interruptions in water supply for several days.
Allegations Regarding Development Projects
Jamwal further alleged that several development initiatives launched during the previous BJP government had slowed down or remained pending after the change in government.
He referred to the Shiv Dham project, stating that the tourism-focused initiative had received financial approval of Rs. 250 crore during the BJP tenure but had not progressed further. According to him, the project had the potential to boost tourism and generate employment opportunities for local youth.
He also mentioned the proposed Mandi Airport project, claiming that financial support of approximately Rsm1000 crore had earlier been approved from the Centre. Jamwal alleged that progress on the project had slowed significantly after the Congress government assumed office.
Municipal Administration and Infrastructure Issues
The BJP leader stated that the Mandi Municipal Corporation had faced staff shortages and administrative challenges, which, according to him, affected implementation of development works. He alleged that available funds could not be fully utilized due to delays and lack of manpower.
Jamwal also raised concerns over road connectivity in the district. He cited the collapse of the Kun Ka Tar bridge during the 2023 floods and claimed that reconstruction work took a long time. He also referred to delays in repair work on the Suketi Khad bridge, which reportedly caused inconvenience to commuters, students, and employees.
The BJP additionally highlighted the condition of the Ladbharol-Sandapattan road, alleging that local residents and drivers had to undertake temporary repairs themselves due to delays in maintenance work.
Allegations of Irregularities
Jamwal alleged irregularities in the Jal Shakti Department and referred to a vigilance investigation in the Bagi Division office, where records linked to nearly 1,398 tenders were reportedly seized. He claimed the matter raised concerns regarding transparency in the tendering process.
Concerns Over Sardar Patel University
The BJP also expressed concern regarding the functioning of Sardar Patel University in Mandi. Jamwal said the university, established during the previous BJP government, required stronger administrative and financial support to fulfill its objectives for higher education and youth development in the region.
BJP Seeks Public Support
Concluding his remarks, Jamwal said the BJP would contest the municipal elections on issues related to development, transparency, and public welfare. He expressed confidence that voters in Mandi would support the party in the upcoming elections.
