Shimla (HD News): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has made it clear that the Congress High Command is free to appoint anyone as the state party president and for him, every leader is equal. Speaking to the media in Shimla, he stressed that there is no factionalism in the party anymore and all Congress leaders stand united with the party’s ideology.
“For Me, Everyone is Equal – High Command Free to Decide”
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the Congress High Command’s decision on appointing the new state party president will be fully respected and supported. “There is no groupism in the Congress today. Whoever the High Command appoints as the president will get full backing, ” Sukhu stated during his informal interaction with journalists in Shimla.
BJP Slammed Over Walkout in Assembly
The Chief Minister targeted the opposition BJP, alleging that the party always shows a gap between words and actions. He strongly criticized BJP’s walkout during the assembly debate on natural disaster under Rule 67. “Congress MLAs had demanded discussion under Rule 130 and later under Rule 67. A serious debate continued for four days, but when the government started responding, BJP walked out. Ironically, Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, who insisted on Rule 67, was absent from the House himself, ” Sukhu said.
Best Relief Package Despite Financial Crisis
Highlighting his government’s relief measures, CM Sukhu claimed that Himachal Pradesh has provided the best compensation package in the country despite financial challenges.
₹7 lakh for construction of damaged houses
₹70, 000 for loss of clothes and household goods
₹25, 000 to ₹1 lakh for damaged kutcha houses
₹55, 000 for loss of cattle such as cows and buffaloes
He said that even with limited resources, the government has prioritized relief for affected families, while BJP continues to politicize the issue.
Demand for Special Package from Union Government
The Chief Minister also emphasized that Himachal is among the worst-hit states due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and climate change-driven disasters. “Global warming and changing weather patterns are hitting Himachal the hardest. Other states will also face such disasters in the future. During the Union Home Secretary’s visit, I will demand a special package for Himachal, ” Sukhu asserted.
No Participation in Rahul Gandhi’s Visit
When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming visit, CM Sukhu clarified that he will not be participating as the state assembly’s monsoon session is currently underway. “Right now, my priority is the Assembly session and governance. I have no plans to join Rahul Gandhi’s tour, ” he said.