Dharamshala, November 26: Former Minister and sitting BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma launched a scathing attack on RS Bali, Chairperson of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Council, accusing him of gross mismanagement and lack of transparency in handling state tourism projects.
Addressing the media here today, Sharma pointed to a High Court order directing a payment of ₹64 crore by January 2023 with 7% interest for unresolved issues related to Selli Hydroelectric Power Limited.
He alleged that the government failed to comply, resulting in the possibility of property attachment, adding to the state’s financial embarrassment.
“The pride of Himachal’s tourism department is at stake due to mismanagement.
HPTDC Properties generating income for the state have been neglected.
Instead of addressing these issues, the tourism board’s meetings focus on unrelated discussions and invite non-experts to decide critical matters,” Sharma remarked.
Citing the condition of tourism infrastructure, he said, “Projects like Shivdham in Mandi and paragliding institutes remain incomplete or are poorly managed. Government-run hotels are in shambles, lacking even basic amenities like bedsheets and pillows.
What reforms have been implemented? None! Instead, inexperienced individuals are being hired, and public funds are being siphoned off.”
He questioned Bali’s motives, hinting at a conflict of interest. “When you hold meetings with investors outside the state but ignore opportunities here, it raises doubts about your intentions. Who are these investors? Why is there a lack of transparency?”
Sharma also claimed that over ₹14 crore was allocated to Himachal Health Care Private Limited two years ago, with ₹10.75 crore still pending. He suggested this was symptomatic of the government’s failure to ensure accountability in major financial dealings.
Raising the issue of employment, Sharma alleged that “rolls are being beaten” and claims of recruitment remain hollow. “Thousands of educated youth are still waiting for opportunities while the government spends time covering up its failures,” he said.
The MLA accused Bali and the tourism council of misusing Himachal’s resources, stating, “This government is working for personal interests rather than public welfare.
When tourism properties are mismanaged, it directly affects local businesses, employees, and the state economy.”
Sudhir Sharma didn’t mince words when calling for accountability, demanding Bali’s resignation and accusing the state government of functioning with “complete lies and mismanagement.”
He warned, “The people of Himachal won’t remain silent. The day isn’t far when the public will gherao the assembly over this government’s failures.”
