Sukhu Hits Back at BJP, Rolls Out 24×7 Hospitality Policy

Hitting out at the opposition, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today dismissed BJP claims that his government breached election rules by holding a cabinet meeting. He reminded the media that the previous BJP regime had done exactly the same during earlier local polls. Sukhu accused the Centre of adopting different standards on fuel prices while simultaneously burdening people with higher costs. The most striking announcement, however, was the green light for 24-hour operations of restaurants, bars and retail outlets across Himachal Pradesh. The move is expected to give a fresh impetus to tourism and night-time economic activity. Commenting on the elections, Sukhu said the massive voter turnout reflects the strength of democracy and that early trends indicate solid support for Congress nominees. Counting for panchayat seats has started, while results for zila parishad and block development councils will follow shortly.