BJP demands sacking of Minister Negi over flood mismanagement

The BJP on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government, demanding the immediate dismissal of Horticulture, Revenue and Rehabilitation Minister Jagat Singh Negi for what it termed “insensitivity and misconduct” in the aftermath of the recent floods.

Addressing a press conference in Dharamsala, BJP state general secretary Trilok Kapoor accused Minister Negi of gross negligence. He alleged that Negi failed to visit the flood-affected areas of Mandi district for nearly 25 days and did not announce any relief package during his eventual visit to Thunag.

“Instead of leading relief and rescue operations on the ground, Negi chose to remain ensconced in the Secretariat in Shimla,” Kapoor charged.

He further alleged that the minister worsened the plight of flood-hit residents by ordering FIRs against 65 individuals who had protested due to the delay in aid. “This is nothing short of rubbing salt into their wounds,” Kapoor remarked, demanding that the FIRs be withdrawn immediately or the BJP would launch state-wide protests.

Calling Negi “irresponsible and arrogant,” Kapoor said the minister has a history of using foul language and displaying inappropriate behaviour. “The people have suffered for more than two and a half years due to his arrogance. If the government fails to rein him in, the BJP will be forced to launch a mass agitation across Himachal,” he warned.

Kapoor also criticised Negi’s alleged attempt to shift the Horticulture College from Thunag despite strong local opposition. “The residents are already in distress, and this move only adds to their woes,” he said.

Highlighting BJP’s ongoing relief efforts, Kapoor stated that under the leadership of state president Dr. Rajiv Bindal, the party had mobilised teams to distribute ration kits and essential supplies in the affected areas. He also mentioned BJP national president JP Nadda’s visit to disaster-hit regions and his efforts to secure central assistance.

Questioning the Chief Minister’s silence, Kapoor asked, “How long will Sukhu tolerate such blatant misgovernance? The people of Himachal deserve better.”

BJP leaders Sanjay Sharma, Rakesh Sharma, district president Sachin Sharma, and media coordinator Vishav Chakshu were

also present.