Seeking Himachal CM's resignation a sarcastic attack on BJP: Min Sudivya

Ranchi: Higher and technical education minister Sudivya Kumar found himself embroiled in a controversy for his remarks suggesting that Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu should resign on moral grounds in connection with the terror attack on tourists at Pahalgam in Kashmir. Amid mounting criticism and social media backlash, Kumar said on Friday that his comments were intended as a pointed criticism of the central leadership's response to security challenges.

"My statement about the Himachal CM's resignation was purely sarcastic, meant to highlight the persistent silence of our country's top leadership in the face of security breaches," he said, emphasising that his remarks were specifically aimed at questioning the accountability of the Prime Minister and the Union home minister regarding repeated security failures.

However, opposition leaders and BJP functionaries have strongly criticised Kumar for what they perceive as politicization of the tragedy. BJP state president Babulal Marandi condemned the minister's statements, saying, "Sudivya should cease bringing shame to our state with his irresponsible and unfounded comments. Rather than showing remorse for his goof-up, he has chosen to make additional questionable statements."

Asked why only the Himachal CM's resignation was sought, he claimed, "That's the irony, when those in power are silent I asked a non-connected person in power to resign as a token of protest."

Drawing parallels with previous security incidents, Sonu referenced the Pulwama attack, saying, "When 300 kg of RDX crossed our borders and claimed the lives of CRPF jawans, no one assumed responsibility. Even now, after significant civilian casualties, the Centre maintains its silence. How long will the PM and the home minister continue to evade their responsibilities?"

The minister expressed disappointment over the Centre's decision not to declare national mourning following the Pahalgam attack. "The entire nation is in mourning. At a minimum, national mourning should have been declared to demonstrate solidarity with the bereaved families. The suffering of ordinary citizens deserves acknowledgement," he said.