Leader of Opposition says BJP will play a constructive role in Assembly but will not tolerate political vendetta
Shimla: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur on the eve of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly’s Monsoon Session said the opposition would play a constructive role but would give a “strong response” if there was any attempt to suppress democratic voices.
Speaking to reporters at the Vidhan Sabha after attending an all-party meeting, Thakur said the BJP would cooperate with the government if it raised matters responsibly and took the opposition’s concerns seriously.
“If the government speaks and acts correctly, we will support it. But if there is an attempt to crush the voice of democracy, the opposition will give a befitting response,” he said.
Thakur said the opposition would not abandon issues concerning public interest and would continue to raise the concerns of people both inside and outside the House.
‘Government Behaviour Will Determine Cooperation’
The Leader of Opposition said much would depend on the government’s conduct during the session.
“If our concerns are heard seriously, we will cooperate. But if attempts are made to ignore or suppress the opposition, we will ensure that the government is compelled to listen to the people’s voice,” he said.
Thakur also accused the state government of pursuing what he described as cases against elected representatives with a sense of political vendetta.
“If the matters are serious, they should certainly be investigated. But if the objective is to silence the opposition, we will not allow it. No one has been able to suppress us in the past, and no one will be able to do so in the future,” he said.
Questions Over Delay in Government Replies
Thakur said he had raised concerns before the Speaker regarding delays in providing information sought by opposition members.
He alleged that over the past several years, opposition members were often told that information was being collected even when government departments had already forwarded the required details.
He said some departments allegedly withheld information, forcing opposition members to use the Right to Information Act to obtain the same details and present them in the House.
“The government must be accountable. Members should receive timely answers to questions raised during Zero Hour and other proceedings,” he said.
‘Focus Should Be on Development’
Thakur said the government should have focused on development but alleged that its priorities had shifted elsewhere.
He also called for the Speaker to ensure that members receive the information sought by them in a timely manner.
The former Chief Minister said the opposition was ready to cooperate for the smooth functioning of the Assembly, but added that cooperation would depend on responsible conduct and respect for democratic traditions.
