Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday unequivocally rejected claims made by the Leader of the Opposition, Jai Ram Thakur, that the current Congress administration was selling government properties. The Chief Minister asserted that no public assets would be disposed of or allowed to be misused under his government.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Chief Minister, addressing reporters in Shimla regarding the controversy surrounding the historic Peterhoff property, stated that the government had no intentions of selling the establishment. Instead, plans are underway to develop a larger and improved facility that will feature approximately 100 rooms.
Sukhu commented, “Jai Ram Thakur does not know why he makes such statements. Peterhoff has developed leakage problems, and its condition has deteriorated. The old Peterhoff was destroyed in a fire, and a new building was subsequently constructed during the tenure of the previous government.” He further elaborated that the state administration is committed to developing an upgraded and more expansive Peterhoff, aiming for a capacity of at least 100 rooms to enhance the services offered at the property.
Taking a critical stance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Chief Minister alleged that the preceding administration had allocated approximately 5,000 bighas of land under a bespoke package through a 99-year lease for a nominal sum of Rs one, without proper registration. He contrasted his government’s approach, stating, “Unlike the BJP, we will neither sell government properties nor allow anyone to loot them. There is no intention whatsoever to sell any government asset.”
Shifting focus to the upcoming winter session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Sukhu announced that the government had scheduled what is expected to be the longest winter session to date. He expressed hope that BJP legislators would engage in constructive discussions rather than resorting to walkouts. The Chief Minister noted the opposition’s historical tendency to stage walkouts and emphasized the government’s desire for BJP members to raise public issues and participate actively in debates within the Assembly.
The Chief Minister also remarked on the perceived pressure on the Leader of the Opposition, suggesting significant discontent within the BJP legislative party. He indicated that the conduct of the opposition during the session would be closely observed. Sukhu explained that the decision to convene the winter session earlier was made to ensure that Assembly proceedings did not negatively impact Himachal Pradesh’s crucial tourism season, which plays a vital role in the state’s economy.
In a separate development, the Chief Minister also commented on the forthcoming launch of a book by senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, titled ‘Ek Anubhav, Ek Yaadein’. The book is scheduled to be unveiled in Delhi on November 16. Sukhu described the book as a testament to Gandhi’s political journey and personal experiences, noting that she had recounted her memories and experiences with sincerity, which has garnered considerable public interest.
He further stated that Sonia Gandhi had been a close observer of India’s political trajectory. He recalled the sacrifices made by her mother-in-law, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and her husband, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, in their efforts to uphold the unity and integrity of the nation. Sukhu also credited Sonia Gandhi with her instrumental role in fortifying the Congress organisation, highlighting that the party currently stands as the country’s principal opposition force.
The Chenab Times News Desk
