Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], November 22 : Naresh Chauhan, Principal Media Advisor to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, on Friday provided a detailed update on the government's legal challenges and recent judicial developments that have brought relief in two critical cases.
Chauhan confirmed that the Himachal Pradesh government had approached the Supreme Court to challenge a High Court order that had raised concerns over the appointment of CPS. The case, which was heard on Wednesday, pertains to the disqualification of certain members, with the government securing a stay on the order.
Chauhan emphasized that the state had successfully obtained a stay in the first 50 cases where members faced potential disqualification. This order effectively prohibits any actions that could lead to disqualification, providing significant relief to the government.
Chauhan also pointed out that the Supreme Court had not endorsed disqualification in the related case in Manipur, reinforcing that no similar disqualification would be applied to the MLAs in Himachal Pradesh. He expressed satisfaction with the development, welcoming it as a major win for the state government.
"We are pleased with the Supreme Court's direction," said Chauhan. "Our case, along with others from different states, has now been clubbed together, and the court's stance on disqualification is a relief for us. This further strengthens the legitimacy of our elected representatives and affirms the people's trust in their chosen government."
Addressing allegations from the opposition, Chauhan reiterated that attempts to destabilize the government were part of a deliberate strategy to weaken it from the outset. He referred to the opposition's consistent efforts to undermine the government, including through what he called "Operation Lotus," which involved the use of money power and agencies to try and topple the elected government.
"The people of Himachal Pradesh have rejected these efforts," Chauhan asserted. "They have elected 40 MLAs with a clear mandate for development. The opposition needs to shift its focus and become a constructive, positive force, rather than constantly indulging in negative publicity."
Chauhan highlighted another crucial legal victory for the state government concerning the closure of 18 hotels owned by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). The High Court had earlier ordered the closure of these hotels, a decision that had significant implications for the state's tourism sector. However, today the court granted relief by allowing the hotels to remain operational.
"The High Court's decision today was a major victory for us," said Chauhan. "We have been granted permission to continue running the 18 HPTDC hotels, and the court has given us a reprieve in the first review itself. We are hopeful that in the next hearing, a committee will be formed under the leadership of a senior retired officer, who will prepare a report on the future course of action."
The government, according to Chauhan, is open to discussions regarding the future of these hotels. Whether the government will continue to operate them or lease them out remains to be decided, but Chauhan emphasized that the government is committed to finding a solution in consultation with all stakeholders, while adhering to judicial guidelines.
"The government is ready to discuss all aspects related to the operation of these hotels," he said. "We are working with an open mind to ensure that the state's tourism sector continues to thrive while addressing any legal and operational concerns."
Chauhan said that the importance of collaborative efforts between the judiciary, the government, and other stakeholders in ensuring the state's continued development. He acknowledged that such legal challenges are not uncommon but assured that the government is always prepared to address them promptly and with the best interests of the people in mind.
"We will continue working towards the development of Himachal Pradesh, and together, we will find solutions to any challenges that arise," he said.