HP ministers refute charges of corruption

Shimla, Aug 1 (UNI) Dismissing allegations of corruption against the state government leveled by former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister P K Dhumal and BJP President Suresh Bhardwaj as false and frivolous, two ministers today said that the Congress government believed in transparency, probity and fairness.

Corruption had become a way of life and flourished under the previous BJP government's tenure, especially under the patronage of the then Chief Minister P K Dhumal who was accused by his own ministers and MLAs, Irrigations and Public Health Minister Kaul Singh Thakur and Animal HUsbandry Minister Harsh Mahajan said in a joint release here.

They said large scale corruption, scandals and scams took place during the BJP's tenure in office, adding several various selection agencies had become dens of corruption and mass irregularities were committed in appointments in various boards, corporations, universities and other offices.

Referring to the disciplinary proceedings against an Ayurvedic officer, they said the BJP's reaction on the issue was uncalled for and unwarranted and raised suspicion about some sort of nexus between the officer and the BJP.

The association of government officials with RSS activities was banned and officials violating the rules were liable for disciplinary action under the provisions of sub-rule (i) of the central civil servants (conduct) rules, 1964, they said.

The ministers also refuted the BJP's charge that three Ayurvedic doctors have been falsely suspended, saying these people were absent from their offices for long durations besides actively participating in the RSS activities, which warranted strict action against them.

The BJP was only trying to politicise the issue, they added.

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