Demand for inclusion of Kullu MLA in Cabinet grows louder
Residents of Kullu are optimistic about the possibility of their MLA, Sunder Singh Thakur, being appointed as the Tourism Minister. With the tourism industry in Himachal Pradesh — especially in Kullu-Manali — expanding rapidly, there is an urgent need for regulation and development.
Presently, the Mandi parliamentary constituency, comprising 17 Assembly constituencies, has only one minister, who represents the tribal area of Upper Himachal. Locals have emphasised that tourism, being the backbone of the state’s economy, requires a dedicated minister to oversee its growth and sustainability.
Historically, Kullu district has always had Cabinet representation in every government. However, the lack of representation this time has weakened the Congress party’s presence in the region. In the last Lok Sabha elections, Congress trailed behind BJP in 13 out of 17 Assembly constituencies under the Mandi constituency, with BJP candidate Kangana Ranaut securing victory. The demand for Sunder Singh Thakur’s appointment as a minister is gaining momentum among Congress cadres, who view it as a strategic move to bolster the party’s standing in the region.
As the former Chief Parliamentary Secretary (CPS) in the current Cabinet, Thakur demonstrated his efficiency by expediting forest clearance for the ambitious Bijli Mahadev Ropeway project in record time. He also initiated the Sarwari-to-Peej ropeway project, the formalities for which had almost been completed and its construction would start soon. He launched a new paragliding site at Peej in Lug Valley, boosting tourism in Kullu.
Besides, the MLA included the ropeway from Barshaini to Kheerganga in Parbati Valley in his priority list and developed bridle paths, eco-carts and eco-trails in pristine areas of Kullu to promote eco-tourism.
Thakur’s efforts to revive the international standard of the Kullu Dussehra festival have been noteworthy. Over the past two years, the festival has featured numerous international troupes and artistes, enhancing its global appeal. He introduced a cultural parade and carnival during the festivities, adding to their charm.
Furthermore, he directed the Kullu Municipal Council to organise the Kullu Carnival during the Christmas and New Year season in order to attract visitors to the region.
Recently, five out of six former CPS were assigned roles in Vidhan Sabha committees. Thakur’s exclusion from these committees has fuelled speculation about his potential inclusion in the Cabinet. Sources suggest that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is considering measures to create regional balance within the Mandi parliamentary constituency. Notably, Budhi Singh Thakur of Anni, former Kullu District Congress president, was recently appointed Chairman of Himachal Milkfed.
The Mandi parliamentary constituency has five Congress MLAs, two of whom represent Kullu district’s four Assembly constituencies. There is growing anticipation that the government might give representation to Kullu to strengthen the constituency, with Thakur’s name being a prominent contender.
Himachal Tribune