Dharampur MLA launches hunger strike over NH-3 delays

In a dramatic escalation of protest against the prolonged delays and alleged negligence in the construction of the National Highway-3 (Atari-Leh Highway), Dharampur MLA Chander Shekhar has begun an indefinite hunger strike at Avah Devi Chowk under Dharampur subdivision in Mandi district. The agitation, which started late Monday night, has already drawn the support of hundreds of locals who have joined the sit-in demonstration.

The MLA is demanding urgent intervention from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the nodal agency overseeing the project that passes through Hamirpur, Dharampur, Sarkaghat, Kotli and Mandi. The construction has been outsourced to multiple private firms.

Expressing anger at the lack of progress, Shekhar said despite the project being three years old, the work remains stalled. He accused the construction company of ignoring repeated concerns raised in the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly as well as directives from the Chief Minister. “This negligence is unacceptable,” he told the media.

The MLA pointed out that reckless excavation and inordinate delays have devastated nearly 15 panchayats in his constituency. Families have been displaced, homes and cowsheds damaged, children are unable to attend school and patients face grave hardships in reaching hospitals due to broken and inaccessible roads.

He further alleged collusion between the construction company and officials of the road department, holding them responsible for the suffering of the people. Declaring that the hunger strike will continue until strict action is taken and the Centre presents a clear roadmap for resuming and expediting the project, Shekhar said: “I am ready to starve for days if necessary. The people of my constituency deserve better.”