Himachal Pradesh

The BJP in Himachal Pradesh stalled its own adjournment motion on panchayat elections during the Vidhan Sabha's winter session. BJP MLAs initially preferred Question Hour, creating a 35-minute delay. The Speaker ruled to continue the discussion and clarified Question Hour would precede adjournment motions in the future.

Vinay Kumar, a three-time MLA, is appointed as the new Himachal Pradesh Congress president, aiming for caste and regional balance. His appointment addresses the demoralized party cadres and aims to unify factions before the 2027 elections. He is expected to navigate potential internal conflicts and prepare for upcoming local elections.

Himachal Pradesh legislators debated disaster relief efforts. Congress accused the central government of delayed financial aid. BJP criticized the state government for politicizing the disaster and questioned the use of funds, alleging insufficient help for affected families.

BJP MLAs in Himachal Pradesh protested, claiming the state government withheld legislator discretionary grants and MLA Area Development Funds. They accused the government of discriminatory policies and causing a fiscal crisis. Opposition leader Jai Ram Thakur blamed Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

The Himachal Pradesh assembly session was disrupted by opposition protests against Revenue Minister Negi's remarks targeting the BJP and former CM Thakur. The session adjourned, resumed with boycott, and Negi's speech included accusations against the BJP. Ultimately, the adjournment motion was rejected by voice vote after a BJP walkout.

Rash driving, constantly rising vehicular traffic lead to fatal accidents

Time to act: Solan residents demand action against addiction havens

Himachal Pradesh successfully tested a helicopter flight from Shimla to Manali, potentially expanding air travel. This initiative aims to improve accessibility for tourists and residents, particularly in challenging terrains, mirroring the success of previous UDAN-II helicopter services. Regular services could boost tourism and ease road congestion.

The Reserve Bank of India announced a campaign to help people reclaim over Rs 352.52 crore in unclaimed deposits, including Rs 21.07 crore from one district. The RBI is holding special camps to simplify the claims process and combat digital fraud.

Bharat Construction Ltd's stone crusher in Kotla was sealed for operating without consent renewal and pollution control devices. The unit, part of the Pathankot-Mandi project, continued night-time operations despite public complaints and notices from the HPSPCB, ultimately leading to the sealing order.

Scammers in Himachal Pradesh are sending fake wedding invitations via WhatsApp containing malicious APK files or phishing links. These files install malware, stealing personal and financial data. Police warn against opening suspicious messages, especially APK files, and advise reporting incidents to the cybercrime cell.

Chief Minister Sukhu visited Dharamsala's Kacheri Bazaar, interacting with residents. He spoke with a vegetable vendor's daughter, whom he met previously, leading to a loan waiver scheme. Sukhu also engaged with a young girl waiting for a bus. Locals appreciated his informal approach.

Students continue to visit the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Dharamsala to observe proceedings. Government Girls High School, Sihunta students, along with students from Sujanpur Sainik School and Tiara DPS, have attended. The visits aim to provide students with practical exposure to democratic processes. Sihunta students shared their career aspirations.

Chamba MLA Hans Raj received anticipatory bail in a child sexual abuse case. He expressed faith in the Indian constitution. The case involves allegations of sexual exploitation and intimidation. The complainant initially withdrew similar allegations last year.

Shimla district halted NHAI's twin tunnel construction due to a depression and structural issues on Mehli-Dhali Road. Blasting permits are withdrawn. A detailed investigation is planned. All excavation and related work are suspended for safety until further notice. Continuous monitoring and safety measures are mandated.

A fatal acid attack in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked outrage. Domestic violence is prevalent but underreported due to stigma. While acid attacks are rare, cases of abuse and gender-based violence are rising. Stricter enforcement of acid sale regulations, faster courts, and increased support for victims are demanded.

Appeal to people belonging to minority community to cooperate and not to visit the mosque

MP Sanjana Jatav, appointed by the AICC, is gathering feedback in Shimla to select a district president. She will prepare a panel of six names for the party high command after meeting with leaders and workers. Ten individuals applied for the position.

Mohit Chawla, DIG of Himachal Pradesh Police, won the CISO of the Year Award for Law Enforcement at the Dynamic CISO Excellence Awards 2025. He was recognized for his efforts in controlling cybercrime and enhancing digital security in the state, with the DGP congratulating him on his achievement.

A couple is missing after allegedly jumping into the Sutlej River near Anni. The husband and wife, who lived in rented accommodation, reportedly had a dispute the night before. Witnesses saw the wife jump in, followed by her husband. Police are searching the river and investigating the incident.

A newborn's body was found near railway tracks in Upper Arniala village, Una. Migrant workers discovered the infant, who was wrapped in clothing. Police are investigating, focusing on recent births in the primarily migrant community and seeking birth records.

Palampur police seized 34g heroin, Rs 4.5 lakh, and more during a raid. Mohit, a Punjab resident, was arrested for heroin smuggling, possibly supplying local youth. His mother escaped and is also suspected. Police are investigating suppliers and combating drug trafficking with a district-wide campaign.

Amarjeet Kumar Sharma, Himachal Pradesh's State Chief Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, received the Silver Elephant Award. The award recognizes his outstanding service in scouting, particularly his leadership since 2018, which has expanded scouting activities and modernized training programs.

A mock rescue drill was held at the Jakhu ropeway to assess emergency preparedness. Tourists were safely rescued from a simulated trolley breakdown nearly 100 meters high. The DDMA, NDRF, SDRF, and Home Guards participated to practice safe rescue procedures.

Raise concerns on delayed dues, vehicle maintenance