Himachal Pradesh Assembly Erupts Over Liquor Auction Scandal Allegations

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly experienced a heated session as the BJP walked out, alleging that liquor vends were auctioned below reserve prices in five districts. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu defended the government's revenue figures and transparency. BJP members demanded a judicial inquiry and additional measures to ensure fair auctions and pricing.

Tensions ran high in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Thursday as the BJP staged a walkout, accusing the state government of auctioning liquor vends below reserve prices in five districts. The move, they allege, resulted in financial losses and called for a judicial inquiry into the matter.

Responding to BJP's Randhir Sharma, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the revenue generated, asserting that the auction-cum-tender policy brought in Rs 485.18 crore. He emphasized the transparency of the process and noted that the previous BJP government accumulated Rs 665.42 crore over five years.

Sharma contested the Chief Minister's response, alleging a revenue shortfall and price overcharging by vendors. Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur further accused the Chief Minister of misleading the House. Dissatisfied, BJP members walked out of the session, demanding action against defaulters and a re-auction of the liquor vends.

(With inputs from agencies.)