Shimla June 4
BJP Chief Spokesperson Rakesh Jamwal has strongly criticized Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi over his recent remarks, accusing him of making statements that are anti-Sanatan, misleading, and politically motivated.
Addressing the media, Jamwal alleged that Negi has been unable to accept the Congress party’s declining political position and his own electoral setbacks in Kinnaur. He claimed that the minister was attempting to remain politically relevant by making baseless allegations against the BJP and its leaders.
Jamwal questioned why the minister appeared to have objections to the slogan “Jai Shri Ram,” stating that Lord Ram symbolizes faith, culture, morality, and values for millions of Indians. He emphasized that Lord Ram belongs to the entire nation and is not associated with any single political party.
According to the BJP leader, if Congress leaders feel uncomfortable with BJP workers chanting “Jai Shri Ram,” it reflects what he described as the party’s anti-Sanatan mindset. He further alleged that recent statements made by Congress leaders indicate a pattern of targeting Hindu faith and traditions.
Jamwal said that remarks concerning Lord Ram hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees and should not be used as part of political discourse. He asserted that Lord Ram represents the cultural identity and spiritual heritage of India and transcends political boundaries.
The BJP spokesperson also accused the Congress government of trying to divert public attention from issues such as economic mismanagement, slow development works, increased taxation, and what he termed anti-people decisions.
Referring to the entry tax controversy, Jamwal maintained that the decision to impose entry tax at the state’s borders was taken by the Congress government led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, not by the BJP. He claimed that the BJP had opposed the move from the beginning, warning that it could negatively impact tourism, trade, and the state’s image.
He questioned the Congress government on who approved the policy, issued the notification, and collected the tax, arguing that responsibility for the decision rests entirely with the present government.
Jamwal further alleged that the state government’s policies have created unnecessary tensions with neighboring states and harmed Himachal Pradesh’s reputation as a welcoming tourist destination.
Concluding his statement, he said the BJP would continue to oppose what it considers anti-people policies and any perceived disrespect toward Sanatan traditions and Lord Ram. He added that the party would keep highlighting the government’s shortcomings before the people of Himachal Pradesh.
