The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday stepped up its criticism of the state government, questioning its claims of delivering a “world-class healthcare system” while pointing to alleged shortcomings in hospital services.
At Matour near Kangra, former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur cited the situation at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, alleging a stark gap between official claims and ground realities. He said the Cardiology OPD was found locked, reportedly leaving patients—many of them elderly and seriously ill—without consultation or treatment.
Thakur alleged that despite heavy investment in advanced facilities such as cath labs, the shortage of specialist doctors has resulted in key services remaining non-operational, raising concerns over governance and the utilisation of public funds.
Turning to politics, the BJP leader also criticised the Congress over its recent outreach programme, claiming internal dissatisfaction within the party following remarks linked to Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s visit.
He further accused the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government of weakening institutional systems and failing to address key issues in healthcare and administration, stating that development in the state has suffered a setback during the current tenure.
The remarks came during a BJP strategy meeting held ahead of the Dharamshala Municipal Corporation elections, attended by senior leaders including Anurag Thakur, MP Rajiv Bhardwaj, MLA Pawan Kajal, and other party functionaries.
Party leaders also discussed the issue of rebel candidates contesting as independents and explored ways to bring them back into the party fold.
MLA Pawan Kajal expressed confidence in the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming civic polls, alleging corruption in the Dharamshala Municipal Corporation under Congress rule and citing delays in the Smart City project as key issues driving public demand for change.
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