The government in Himachal Pradesh frequently captures headlines due to its directives. In the latest surprising development, HRTC management has issued a notice to a bus driver and conductor in Shimla for listening to a debate on a government bus. They have been asked to respond within three days. This incident occurred on a transport corporation bus traveling from Dhalli to Sanjauli. On November 5, while on the Shimla-Dhalli-Sanjauli route, a passenger played an audio program at high volume on his mobile that was critical of Rahul Gandhi, the senior opposition leader.
Someone lodged a complaint with the Chief Minister's office, prompting them to instruct HRTC to take cognizance of the matter. Following this, HRTC management initiated an inquiry against the driver and conductor of the bus, requesting an explanation from both. In response, the opposition criticized the Congress government, with the BJP stating that such actions have embarrassed Himachal Pradesh across the country.
Congress's Downfall in Himachal: BJP
Sukh Ram Chaudhary, BJP leader and former minister from Shimla parliamentary constituency, commented on Congress's failures in Himachal Pradesh, citing halted development and public distress. The Shimla local depot of HRTC has now demanded a written explanation from the bus driver and conductor within three days. He questioned why such a minor incident is causing trouble for individuals and noted that previous investigations in the state have not yet been settled. The inquiry into drivers and conductors adds another issue.
He emphasized that developmental activities in Himachal are stalled, with the government focusing on halting welfare schemes. Despite numerous potential areas for improvement in Himachal Pradesh, the government appears to focus solely on amplifying chaotic inquiries, tarnishing Himachal's image nationwide. The Chief Minister and his colleagues seem indifferent, celebrating two years in office without significant achievements, leaving the state questioning what exactly they are celebrating.
BJP Legislator Calls Incident Ridiculous
Sudir Sharma, a BJP legislator from Dharamshala, labeled the incident as ridiculous. He pointed out that such incidents repeatedly make Himachal a subject of ridicule and gossip nationwide. A letter originating from the Chief Minister's office reached HRTC, concerning the alleged violation of rules by a person listening to a debate on his phone inside the bus. The order demanded an inquiry and an explanation from the drivers, claiming it violated government regulations against such debates on buses. They requested a response within three days, warning of potential action.
He argued that a driver can only focus on driving and cannot control who listens to what. If the situation demands, the government should consider appointing marshals on buses to restrain such activities. The absence of meaningful discussion on public welfare issues is worrying, and this government focus on superficial issues for investigation is unfortunate, bringing shame to the state nationwide.
