Dhumal expresses concern over growing mafia in state

Shimla, Feb 24 (UNI) Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and leader of the BJP in the Assembly P K Dhumal today expressed concern over the increasing influence of mafia in real estate, liquor and mining industry in the state .

Mr Dhumal cautioned that any relaxation in the Tenancy and Land Reforms Act could prove disastrous for the people of the state.

While initiating the discussion on the motion of thanks on governor's address he said any changes in section 118 of the act, which barred non-agriculturists of the state from purchasing lands, would further reduce the already scarce agricultural lands in the state.

Mr Dhumal said mafia had a great influence on real estate, liquor and mining industry in the state and accused the government of not taking any action to curb it.

Interrupting Mr Dhumal, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh said the government was concerned over illegal mining and proposed to bring a legislation to check it during the current budget session of the Assembly.

Mr Dhumal also opposed the Himalayan ski village project to be set up in Kullu district of the state.

Mr Dhumal said the project was not in favour of the interests of the people and added that the project could have serious ecological, cultural and security implications.

He asked the government to take immediate steps to get the industrial package extended upto 2013, its original period, and cautioned the decision of the UPA government to curtail the package upto 2007 would seriously impede the state's industrial growth.

He also accused the goverment of corruption and questioned the irregularities in issuance of indutrial licences.

He also alleged gross irregularities in recent elections to panchayat raj bodies and said that all out efforts were made to install Congress-led bodies even at place where the BJP had clear majority.

Moving the motion of thanks, Harash Vardhan of the Congress focused on corruption during the previous BJP government rule and accused the BJP of spreading regionalism.

Seconding the motion, Mukesh Agnihotri of the Congress said the Congress government was committed to root out corruption.

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