In a strongly worded joint statement, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh and Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani have condemned the recent incident involving Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi in the Seraj Assembly Constituency of Mandi district. Terming the episode as not just an affront to an individual minister but a deep insult to the democratic ethos, cultural dignity, and constitutional values of Himachal Pradesh, both ministers criticized the incident as unacceptable and disgraceful.
They emphasized that Himachal Pradesh has always upheld mutual respect, democratic traditions, and cultural harmony, but the behavior displayed during this incident stands in stark contrast to the state’s image. Minister Jagat Singh Negi, they noted, was on a constitutional duty—visiting Seraj to assess disaster damage and meet affected families—when he was targeted and misbehaved with by what they described as “anti-social elements” in a “premeditated” and “conspiratorial” manner.
Calling it a “well-planned conspiracy,” both ministers held the BJP responsible, alleging that the incident occurred under the tacit support and encouragement of BJP leaders. “This is an extremely unfortunate precedent in the state’s political history,” they warned, “and if such trends continue, it may have serious consequences for democratic discourse in the future.”
While acknowledging the right to protest in a democracy, the ministers clarified that dissent must remain within the bounds of civility and legality. They asserted that the incident in Seraj crossed all limits and turned into a criminal act that the government will not tolerate. “This is not merely disrespect towards a minister, but a blow to the democratic spirit and political maturity of Himachal Pradesh,” they concluded.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
