Himachal Pradesh assembly confronts Monsoon calamity: Opposition walkout amid demands

The eight-day-long monsoon session of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha began amidst controversy as the opposition BJP staged a walkout. They sought discussion on the state's monsoon calamity, claiming that the damage was extensive and required urgent attention. The Speaker rejected their adjournment motion, leading to a heated debate between the ruling party and the opposition.

Opposition's demand for discussion

The opposition BJP pressed for a discussion on the devastating effects of the monsoon in the state, emphasizing the magnitude of the damage caused by heavy rains and floods. They moved an adjournment motion under Rule 67 to address this issue. However, Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania cited a notice from the government under Rule 102, covering a similar topic, and decided to combine the two motions.

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Government's response

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan expressed the government's concern over the calamity but deemed the BJP's motion under Rule 67 as "politically motivated." He pointed out that the government had already received recognition from various quarters, including former Chief Minister Shanta Kumar, the World Bank, and NITI Aayog, for its effective handling of the situation.

Opposition's walkout

As Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu moved a resolution detailing the government's response to the calamity, BJP MLAs raised slogans and staged a walkout in protest. They contended that their motion was distinct and demanded an immediate discussion.

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Government's measures and commitment

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu outlined the government's efforts to tackle the unprecedented destruction, including restoring essential services, rescuing stranded individuals, and providing relief. He revealed that the state government had not received any special package from the Centre and declared that the state would bear the costs of the monsoon damages.