Bijli Mahadev BJP backs Dev community concerns

Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Jai Ram Thakur has for the first time clearly stated the BJP’s stance on the controversial Bijli Mahadev ropeway project in Himachal Pradesh, assuring that the sentiments of the people will remain paramount. His remarks have provided significant reassurance to the Dev community in Kullu, which has repeatedly warned that the project could endanger the sanctity of one of the state’s most revered shrines.

Thakur, along with senior BJP leader and former MP Maheshwar Singh, met representatives of the Dev community in Kullu to hear their concerns. Singh, who is the traditional Chharibardar (chief caretaker) of Lord Raghunath, has long opposed the ropeway, arguing that the divine traditions and cultural practices linked to Bijli Mahadev must not be disturbed.

Supporting this position, Thakur emphasised that safeguarding Dev culture, folk traditions and the sanctity of sacred sites is a priority for the BJP. He recalled that during his tenure as Chief Minister, the ropeway project was not advanced precisely due to such sensitivities. He added that BJP national president JP Nadda and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari had also assured that local faith and traditions would be fully respected.

According to Thakur, even the Prime Minister’s Office was apprised of the sentiments of the deities and devotees, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was personally made aware of the sensitivities surrounding the issue. While acknowledging that the ropeway was originally envisioned to improve connectivity and tourism, Thakur reiterated that no development project can be allowed to proceed at the cost of faith, environment or culture.

The Bijli Mahadev ropeway proposal is nearly two decades old. A detailed project report was prepared in 2006, followed by a Rs 94 crore agreement in 2017 under the “Himalayan Tourist Circuit.” In 2023, the project cost was revised to Rs 200 crore, with work expected to start by March. In December 2024, the Union Environment Ministry further boosted its prospects by exempting ropeways from forest clearance requirements.

Yet, opposition rooted in deep faith continues. The debate now reflects a larger struggle between development aspirations and the protection of Himachal’s cultural and spiritual heritage — with the BJP signaling it will stand firmly with the people of Kullu.