Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Before the start of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly’s budget session, the opposition protested outside the House.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs, holding placards with slogans, shouted slogans against the government. They opposed the state government’s proposed cess and entry tax on petrol and diesel.

Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur said that this happens when decisions are made hastily and without careful consideration. Due to the entry tax, areas of Himachal that share borders with neighboring states will also face difficulties. He said that neighboring states are also protesting Himachal’s entry tax, and people are taking to the streets to protest.

He said that the entry tax has been increased substantially. He added that the central government has reduced the cess by 10 rupees per liter to control petrol and diesel prices, while the Himachal government is preparing to impose a cess of 5 rupees. A protest was held today to protest this.

Robotic Surgery Issue Likely to Heat Up House

The issue of robotic surgery will resonate during Question Hour today. Three BJP and one Congress MLA have raised questions regarding the expensive machinery purchased for robotic surgery, the training of staff, and the procurement through the Medical Services Corporation. This issue is likely to be heated in the House today.

The MLAs have asked how many hospitals and medical colleges in the state have robotic surgery and MRI facilities. How much does a robotic surgery machine cost? How many machines have been ordered and where they will be installed. They have requested details of the tenders for these machines.

Milk Payment Delays to Be Raised

Additionally, the issue of pending payments for milk purchased from farmers by the state-owned Milkfed will also be raised in the House. BJP MLA Satpal Satti has asked a related question. Many cattle farmers in the state have not been paid for their milk for two months, causing distress.

PWD Office Shift May Trigger Uproar

Congress MLA Anuradha Rana has asked a question regarding the promotion of winter sports in Lahaul-Spiti. The Assembly will also consider a question regarding the relocation of the Public Works Department’s office in Thalot to Pandoh. Purva Chand Thakur has asked a related question. This issue is also likely to cause uproar in the House.

Bhakra Dam Displacement Issue Also on Agenda

The issue of Bhakra Dam displaced people will also resonate in the Assembly. BJP MLA Trilok Jamwal will raise the matter in the House.