Prem Kumar Dhumal Blasts Himachal's Lottery Decision

Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal strongly criticized the state government's decision to reintroduce lotteries, labeling it a potential path to ruin. He emphasized that past bans saved citizens from financial harm. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi defended the move, citing its transparency and federal approval.

Himachal Pradesh's recent decision to reintroduce lotteries has drawn sharp criticism from senior BJP leader and former state Chief Minister, Prem Kumar Dhumal. He slammed the decision as one that could lead the state 'towards ruin' and called for an immediate rollback.

Dhumal recalled the state's earlier ban on lotteries under his leadership, highlighting its role in safeguarding the financial well-being of citizens. He noted that in the past, the addictive nature of lotteries had led many government employees and citizens into financial straits.

However, the current state government, backed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, plans to launch an online lottery, emphasizing its transparency and approval from the Union government. Negi stated that the move aligns with practices in other states.

(With inputs from agencies.)