Uproar in Himachal assembly over excise policy, Opposition stages a walkout

The Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly was a scene of chaos on Thursday as the opposition raised a storm over the state’s excise policy. Opposition leaders Randhir Sharma and Surender Shourie questioned the policy, leading to a heated exchange with the ruling party. Frustrated by the lack of satisfactory answers, the opposition accused the government of a liquor scam and demanded a judicial inquiry. The session was marked by loud sloganeering from both sides, eventually leading to the opposition walking out in protest.

During the assembly proceedings, BJP MLA Randhir Sharma voiced serious concerns, stating, “There has been a massive scam under the guise of the excise policy. The state government auctioned liquor contracts for 2023-2024 at prices higher than the reserve price, but for 2024-2025, the bids were lower than the reserve price. In five districts, bids were placed below the reserve price. The auction fetched less revenue compared to last year, resulting in a revenue shortfall of around ₹100 crores. This is a huge scam, happening under the government’s protection. Additionally, units in districts have been increased to benefit contractors, raising suspicions of a major scam. Despite raising this issue in the assembly today, the government is trying to mislead the house.” He emphasized the need for a judicial inquiry to bring the truth to light.

BJP MLA Surender Shourie also raised concerns, highlighting that earlier, liquor was sold at MRP, but this time, it is being sold under MSP, allowing contractors to sell liquor at their discretion. In Kullu-Manali, prices are being hiked by over ₹300. The government has given contractors free rein to exploit the situation.

The opposition’s walkout and the ensuing uproar reflect the deepening tensions over the excise policy, with both sides standing firm on their positions. As the debate continues, the call for a judicial inquiry remains a focal point for the opposition, who are determined to uncover what they believe to be a significant financial scandal.