Is the Himachal Pradesh government driving the unemployed towards lottery addiction?
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Synopsis
In a critical statement, BJP leader Rajiv Bindal has accused the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh of pushing the unemployed towards lottery addiction after lifting a longstanding ban. The BJP plans to protest against what they describe as an oppressive regime failing to deliver on job promises.
Key Takeaways
- Rajiv Bindal criticizes the Congress government for reinstating lotteries.
- The decision is seen as leading the unemployed towards addiction.
- BJP plans to protest against the government on August 6.
- Concerns raised about the government's transparency in relief spending.
- Historical context of lottery policy changes in Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla, Aug 1 (NationPress) Criticizing the financially challenged Congress administration in Himachal Pradesh for reinstating lotteries after more than two decades, BJP state president Rajiv Bindal proclaimed on Friday that the government, which promised to create one lakh permanent jobs, is now leading the unemployed towards lottery addiction.
"It appears the jobless will abandon exam preparations and risk their futures instead," he remarked.
Bindal, a former Cabinet minister, asserted that the BJP, once in power, would reverse such policies.
He recounted that in 1998, when Prem Kumar Dhumal assumed the role of Chief Minister, he prohibited lotteries. However, in 2004, the Congress administration reintroduced them, only for then Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh to halt them again in 2007.
The state Cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, decided on Thursday to resume lottery operations with the aim of generating Rs 100 crore annually.
Bindal stated that the state has evolved into a center for alcohol, drugs, and now lotteries.
"Under the Congress regime, liquor shops have sprouted on Public Works Department land. If someone sells corn there, they face fines," he criticized.
The BJP leader denounced the current government as oppressive, noting that it primarily focuses on filing FIRs and chargesheets. Any government employee who speaks out against the administration is either penalized or transferred. Those protesting against the government face legal action, and false charges are often brought against political adversaries, with the FIR filed in Sirmaur being a prime example.
He mentioned that in Thunag, Mandi district, baseless treason charges were leveled against 72 individuals whose families lost their homes and lands in a disaster.
Bindal announced that the BJP plans to hold a protest against the government in Mandi on August 6.
He insisted the Congress government should clarify how much funding has been allocated for relief and rehabilitation after natural disasters.
"Our estimates reveal that from 2022 to 2025, the government has only spent Rs 150 crore, while the Central government provided Rs 7,513 crore. Recently, at our request, the BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board) has agreed to assist Himachal Pradesh during this monsoon crisis, following discussions with Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar," Bindal concluded.
Point of View
The ongoing political discourse in Himachal Pradesh highlights significant issues surrounding governance and public welfare. The criticisms aimed at the Congress government regarding its handling of unemployment and addiction raise concerns about accountability and effective policy-making. It's essential for leaders from all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and prioritize the well-being of the citizens.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Rajiv Bindal say about the lottery reintroduction?
Rajiv Bindal criticized the Congress government for lifting the lottery ban, claiming it leads the unemployed towards addiction instead of providing jobs.
What is the BJP's stance on the current government?
The BJP views the current Congress administration as oppressive and plans to protest against them for their policies on unemployment and public welfare.
How much revenue is the state government aiming to generate from lotteries?
The Himachal Pradesh government is aiming to generate Rs 100 crore annually from the operation of lotteries.
What historical context did Bindal provide regarding lotteries in Himachal Pradesh?
Bindal mentioned that lotteries were banned in 1998 by then Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, reintroduced by Congress in 2004, and halted again in 2007.
What are the allegations against the Congress government regarding relief funds?
Bindal alleged that the Congress government has spent only Rs 150 crore on relief and rehabilitation from 2022 to 2025, despite receiving Rs 7,513 crore from the Central government.
