Shimla: BJP State Media Convenor Karn Nanda strongly criticized the suspension of a BJP councillor during a meeting of the Shimla Municipal Corporation, leveling serious allegations against the Congress party and the Mayor.
He stated that the Mayor has no constitutional or legal authority to suspend or dismiss any elected councillor from office. Nanda clarified that in India, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, councillors are directly elected representatives of the people. The removal or disqualification of a councillor can only be carried out under the provisions of the Municipal Corporation Act, through statutory action by the state government, or by an order of a competent court. The Mayor, he asserted, does not have unilateral powers to suspend a councillor.
Nanda alleged that the Mayor of Shimla deliberately targeted only one BJP councillor and attempted to publicly humiliate him in the House. He questioned why only one councillor was singled out, claiming that this reflects Congress’ political mindset and a sense of vendetta.
He further said that having failed to deliver on developmental works, Congress is attempting to turn the Municipal Corporation into a political platform to suppress the voice of the opposition. He warned that if the Mayor oversteps constitutional limits, legal consequences may follow. The matter is currently sub judice, and a decision is expected soon.
Nanda reaffirmed that the BJP remains committed to safeguarding democratic values and the dignity of the House. He cautioned Congress against misusing democratic institutions, stating that otherwise the BJP would raise the issue strongly before the public.
