Himachal Horticulture College's Future in Dispute Amid Closure Allegations

Leader of Opposition in Himachal Pradesh Assembly Jai Ram Thakur on Friday raised concerns about the Horticulture College in Thunag, his constituency. He alleged that the government was attempting to close or relocate the college. Thakur mentioned that 205 bighas of land had been identified for the college, but the government was transferring teachers, causing students to leave. He demanded immediate tendering for construction work.

Responding to Thakur's allegations, Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi stated that only two blocks could be constructed on the identified land. He added that constructing hostels and other blocks was not feasible, as per the consultant's report. Negi also took a dig at Thakur, saying he built 16 helipads and large rest houses with 28 rooms but did not make efforts to advance the project.

Government's Stance on College Construction

Negi assured that the college would not be closed and would be built at a suitable location. He mentioned that Rs 300 crore would be spent on the college and construction would start immediately if Thakur could secure Rs 300 crore from the Centre. Thakur responded by saying he had discussed the matter with the chief minister, who asked the horticulture minister to identify suitable land and allocated Rs 10 crore for it.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu intervened, urging Thakur to join him in seeking funds from the Centre. Sukhu assured that the state government would expedite the works once funds were secured. The discussion also touched upon Atal Medical University, which was set up on land not owned by the government, leading to a liability of Rs 1,000 crore after losing cases in high courts and the Supreme Court.

Political Reactions and Protests

Thakur sought more information, but the Speaker moved to the next question. BJP members, except Anil Sharma, began raising slogans and walked out. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshwardhan clarified that it was a protest, not a walkout. He noted that two BJP members were present in the House on Thursday, contrary to media reports of a complete walkout by the party.

The Speaker acknowledged this clarification and urged newspapers to accurately report such protests. He emphasized that both yesterday and today’s actions were protests, not walkouts.

The ongoing debate highlights significant political tensions regarding educational projects in Himachal Pradesh. The government's commitment to resolving these issues remains crucial for future developments.