Dy CM slams bureaucracy, says certain officials trying to destabilise state govt

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri launched a sharp attack on both the bureaucracy and the BJP, accusing certain officials of colluding with opposition leaders and attempting to destabilise the state government. Addressing a massive gathering at the Jan Sankalp Sammelan held at Paddal Ground in Mandi today, Agnihotri issued a strong message to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging tough action against erring officers.

Agnihotri alleged that “some officers frequently visit the houses of BJP leaders and hatch conspiracies,” adding that such conduct would not be tolerated. “Those officers will be dealt with even in the darkness of night. The government will take strict action against them,” he warned. Turning toward the Chief Minister, he said, “This will not work. If you have to deal with such elements, do it with both hands. Hold the stick firmly.”

In a candid remark about internal governance and political clarity, Agnihotri said that with two years left in the government’s tenure, “whoever deserves authority or position should be clearly assigned one.” He emphasised that those who spread misinformation would also face stern action. Maintaining that he was a “contented man,” he said that anyone attempting to crush him or undermine his position “would be destroyed.”

Highlighting the contributions of the Congress party, Agnihotri said that Himachal Pradesh exists today “because of the Congress and the people.” Recalling the efforts of the Nehru-Gandhi family, he said the Congress leadership ensured statehood for Himachal, while the BJP “has always been anti-Himachal.” Remembering former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, he said Congress governments always prioritised development.

Accusing BJP leaders of working against the state’s interests, Agnihotri said they “go to Delhi to block Himachal’s dues.” He pointed out that even though the Prime Minister’s announcements are supposed to be binding, Central assistance has not been released. On OPS, he alleged that the Centre was attempting to dismantle the Old Pension System, while the state government was committed to protecting it. “We will pass a law to guarantee OPS for employees,” he said, insisting that the BJP was responsible for the state’s strained financial condition.

Agnihotri said the Congress government had performed well despite fiscal challenges. He highlighted that HRTC employees received 36 months of pending salaries and pensions, 9,000 employees were reinstated under OPS and pension claims worth Rs 150 crore had been cleared. He alleged that funds worth Rs 1,200 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission were being withheld by the Centre.

Expressing concern over slow progress on the Bulk Drug Park project, Agnihotri issued a stern warning to the bureaucracy, stating that the project must be completed within two years. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling all its guarantees, including the Rs 1,500 financial assistance scheme and 300 units of free electricity.

Agnihotri said the government was fully prepared to respond to questions raised on social media and reaffirmed that “every promise made to the people will be fulfilled.”