BJP seeks a vote of no confidence in Himachal Pradesh

In the wake of the unexpected development in the Rajya Sabha, the BJP is now pushing for a motion of no confidence in Himachal Pradesh

After the surprising turn of events in the Rajya Sabha, the BJP is now seeking a vote of no confidence in Himachal Pradesh

The Leader of the Opposition, along with other BJP MLAs, held a meeting with the Himachal Pradesh Governor this morning to request a test of strength for the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government in the state Assembly. This meeting took place following the BJP’s success in securing a win for its candidate in the sole Rajya Sabha seat. The victory was achieved through cross-voting by Congress MLAs and a favorable draw of lots.

“We have achieved success despite facing unfavorable odds. Harsh Mahajan, the BJP candidate, emerged victorious in the Rajya Sabha elections. At present, the Congress government no longer holds the ethical authority to remain in power,” stated Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur, following the meeting with Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla.

Jairam Thakur accused the marshals of behaving inappropriately and physically handling BJP members who sought to communicate with Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania after he refused to allow the division of votes in cut motions related to the health department. “We have informed the Governor about this,” he stated.

The meeting is taking place amidst speculation that the BJP will introduce a no-confidence motion in the Assembly today as the Budget Session commences.

Mr. Thakur, who served as the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister until 2022 when the BJP was defeated by the Congress, insisted yesterday on a division of votes for the passage of the state Budget rather than a voice vote.

If the division of votes is permitted, it would reveal the actual level of support for each party. Failure of the Congress government to pass the Budget would automatically demonstrate its lack of majority in the House.

The Assembly consists of 40 MLAs from the Congress party, and it was anticipated that their candidate, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, would secure a comfortable victory. However, during the voting for the single Rajya Sabha seat up for election on Tuesday, six Congress MLAs and three Independent legislators backing the government allegedly voted for Harsh Mahajan.