Himachal Pradesh Assembly Session: BJP accuses APMC irregularities, stages walkout

August 27, 2025

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly saw heated scenes on the eighth day of the monsoon session as Opposition members accused the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) of large-scale irregularities in allotting 70 shops in Shimla and Kinnaur. The BJP demanded a judicial probe and walked out of the House, dissatisfied with the government’s reply.

Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur alleged, “APMC’s shop allotment process is riddled with corruption. When we raised the matter in the House, instead of ordering an inquiry, the minister started justifying the allotments. Shops at low rents have been given to favourites, ignoring others,” he said.

BJP MLA Randhir Sharma charged, “In Parala vegetable market, shops have been given for Rs 5,000 rent, whereas 10 years ago these shops were rented out for Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000. The government is running away from an inquiry. If a judicial investigation is held, the truth will come to light. This matter concerns farmers directly. Apart from shop allotments, there is massive corruption in the Parala CA store and food processing plant. When BJP comes to power, we will investigate the matter.”

Echoing the allegations, BJP MLA Balbir Singh Verma said, “The APMC has indulged in nepotism in shop allotments. There is clear evidence of wrongdoing, but the government is trying to shield those responsible.”

Agriculture Minister countered the charges, asserting that “APMC allotted all 70 shops strictly as per rules, and the Opposition is making baseless allegations.”

Unmoved by the minister’s defence, the Opposition staged a walkout, insisting that only a judicial probe could uncover the “truth” in what they termed as a scam affecting farmers’ interests.

Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday has issued a Red Alert for Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi as heavy rainfall continues to affect Himachal Pradesh. While Mandi and Kullu saw a brief respite with clear skies on Wednesday, authorities remain on high alert due to rising water levels and landslide-prone roads.