Political Showdown in Himachal's Winter Session

Simultaneous protests by ruling Congress and opposition BJP created a tense atmosphere on the third day of Himachal Pradesh Assembly's Winter Session. The Congress demanded the release of a special package, while BJP criticized the state government for failing to address employee benefits, escalating tensions inside and outside the Assembly.

The third day of the Winter Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly was marked by parallel protests from both the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP, setting a charged atmosphere at the Tapovan Vidhan Sabha complex in Dharamshala.

Congress members demanded the release of a Rs 1,500-crore special package promised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing the Centre of neglecting the state's financial needs despite severe disaster-related losses. BJP members slammed the Sukhu-led Congress government for its alleged anti-employee stance, citing unresolved issues like medical reimbursements and pension payments.

The confrontations mirrored inside the Assembly, disrupting proceedings and forcing an adjournment. Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania noted the need for prior notice before any protests, ensuring equitable time for both parties and maintaining order in the Vidhan Sabha complex.

(With inputs from agencies.)