Shimla
Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani has strongly condemned remarks allegedly made by BJP leader Sudhir Sharma against Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, saying political differences cannot justify the use of “uncivil” or objectionable language in public life.
Dharmani said Sharma should improve his choice of words and ensure that his public statements reflected the culture, dignity and social decorum traditionally associated with Himachal Pradesh. “Political differences are part of democracy, but personal dignity and restraint in language must not be compromised,” he said.
The minister accused Sharma of attempting to gain political publicity and strengthen his position within the BJP through provocative statements. He said the ongoing differences between factions within the opposition party would not yield any political advantage through such rhetoric, adding that the people of Himachal were capable of judging political statements and would respond at the appropriate time.
Dharmani also defended Chief Minister Sukhu’s informal interaction with ordinary people, saying his accessibility and easy-going manner reflected the simplicity of Himachali society. Referring to criticism over the Chief Minister interacting with common people, he said there was nothing objectionable about Sukhu visiting an ordinary person for a haircut. “Connecting naturally with ordinary people is not a weakness of a leader; rather, it reflects his closeness to the people,” he said.
The minister said Sukhu had risen in politics from an ordinary family through hard work and dedication and understood the concerns of common people. He urged Sharma to exercise restraint and avoid language that, he said, was inconsistent with Himachal Pradesh’s traditionally dignified political discourse.
