BJP hits out at govt, says state in grip of ‘mafia raj’

BJP today said Himachal was in the grip of ‘mafia raj’, be it mining, drug, forest, land, transfer or liquor mafia. These mafias were flourishing due to the political patronage being given by the Congress government.

Addressing a press conference here today, Naina Devi MLA Randhir Sharma alleged that all kinds of mafias were prospering under Congress rule. “The adverse court orders clearly indicate that the Congress regime has failed on all fronts during its two-year rule,” he said.

Sharma said the action by Enforcement Directorate (ED) against illegal mining in Hamirpur, CM’s home district, is a vindication of BJP stand regarding illegal mining. “The mining mafia is active not just in Hamirpur but also in Baddi, Una, Kangra and Sirmaur, who enjoy political patronage,” he alleged. The government seems to be under pressure of the mining mafia.

He said the Chief Minister, instead of talking on facts, is levelling baseless allegations against the previous BJP regime. “Rather than commenting on judges, he should have asked if their legal team defended the case forcefully,” he said. He should undertake introspection and refrain from indulging in blame game. Sharma said the manner in which the Chief Minister commented on the judiciary only proves the claims of his ministers and MLAs that Sukhu is dictatorial.

“The High Court order for closure of so many HP Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) hotels is yet another reflection on the poor governance under Congress,” he said. “I want to know from the CM whether the government will challenge this order of closure of hotels also or give these hotels on lease based on court orders,” he added. He said the CM must give a clear explanation on the issue.