BJP accuses govt of promoting graft, harassing honest officers
Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Shanta Kumar urged the state government to clarify its stance on Baddi SP Ilma Afroz being sent on leave. Following this, the BJP launched a sharp attack on the Congress-led government, accusing it of appointing officers facing prosecution to sensitive posts.
BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Sharma criticised the government for fostering an environment of fear and demoralizing honest officials. Speaking to reporters, Sharma claimed that corrupt officers were being rewarded with key positions while honest ones were sidelined. He cited a case in Hamirpur district where a retired tehsildar facing a Vigilance Department corruption case was reappointed post-retirement, alleging this exemplifies the government’s tolerance for corruption.
Sharma further highlighted the posting of a senior police officer, under investigation for law-and-order violations, to a crucial role handling the state’s sensitive law and order situation. He claimed such decisions reflect the government’s lack of commitment to integrity and public welfare.
In the Health Department, Sharma alleged, an officer with pending corruption cases was posted to a sensitive position at the district headquarters, raising concerns among stakeholders, including drug manufacturers and sellers.
He also referred to an incident where an honest woman police officer was allegedly forced to vacate her residence overnight and was sent on long leave under pressure from an MLA. Such actions, Sharma said, demonstrate how honest officers are being harassed while those with questionable records are being protected.
The BJP spokesperson accused the Congress government of deliberately demoralising upright officials and promoting individuals with questionable integrity. This, he argued, has created public discontent and raised doubts about the Chief Minister’s commitment to reform. Sharma alleged that such decisions contradict promises of clean governance and betray the trust of the state’s residents.
The BJP has demanded the government take immediate steps to uphold transparency and ensure that honest officers are not penalised for their integrity. “The public is questioning if this is the system change promised by the Chief Minister, where corruption thrives, and dutiful officers are punished,” Sharma stated.
The allegations have sparked a heated political debate in the state, with the Congress government yet to respond to the BJP’s claims.
