BJP's Protest in Himachal: A Walkout Drama

BJP legislators in Himachal Pradesh exited the assembly in protest after claiming police stopped workers from joining a 'Maha Pradarshan' against 'mafia raj.' Despite promises of a peaceful demonstration, water cannons were reportedly employed. The Chief Minister argued no orders were given to prevent the protest.

BJP legislators in Himachal Pradesh staged a walkout from the assembly on Thursday, alleging police blocked their workers about 10 kilometers from a protest venue at Chaura Maidan. The protest, dubbed 'Maha Pradarshan,' was against what the BJP calls a 'mafia raj' in the state.

Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur voiced concerns in the Vidhan Sabha, claiming the use of water cannons from other states to deter the protest. Thakur emphasized that in a democratic system, the opposition should have the freedom to express views both within and outside the assembly.

Despite assurances of a peaceful protest, BJP members, including Thakur, exited the house to join the demonstration. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu remarked that the walkout should not be part of official records, asserting that no directive was issued to law enforcement to impede access to the protest site. Additional barricades were erected for safety, he noted.

(With inputs from agencies.)