From the Editor’s Desk

Himachal’s Impasse

Himachal’s tourism sector will get a boost after a national paper ranked it at the top in the wellness destination list. Not only this, this hilly state is marching ahead towards its goals notwithstanding the harsh reality of model code of conduct enforced here. Kullu’s Shiva becomes flag bearer in international winter sports whereas hilly state’s potential is writing new chapters in sports everyday. Politically aware Himachal is striving for success and its achievements are noticed at the national level also. As a result, this hilly state’s achievements are better as compared to BJP’s Gujarat model. It is another fact that Himachal being a hilly state did not get importance in political decisions.  Why this hilly state was put under model code of conduct for more than three months? Politicking is dragging Uttar Pradesh civic body election results to Gujarat to derive political mileage. What was the justification in not declaring Himachal election results? Himachal is being taught environmental code also while national agencies and organisations are active here. Central Bureau of Investigations has put a question mark on the working of Himachal Police in the backdrop of Kotkhai rape and murder case.  National Green Tribunal is also coming out with decisions for this hilly state. It appears that NGT is testing its strict directives here. It is also a fact that citizens are feeling concerned about their rights as NGT’s decisions have adverse impact on direct employment. Himachal didn’t get justice when people were displaced due to Bhakhra and Pong dams for nation’s development. Why there is silence over big dam projects when the NGT is looking at the code for Rohtang, Shimla, Manali and Kasauli? Oustees of Pong Dam are being humiliated for many years now. Displaced people were allotted land in Jaiselmer in Rajasthan even as they had given the most fertile land of Himachal for Pong reservoir.  There is a good news that displaced persons will get money in lieu of the land. Why can’t some forestland be used for their rehabilitation? Election code of conduct has stalled the progress of this state. Only election results will reveal how much democracy was strengthened by blocking Himachal’s progress and good governance.

Thought of the Week

It is better to be alone, than to be in bad company.

  -George Washington

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