Himachal CM Sukhu Condemns Delhi Police Operation, Stresses State Sovereignty
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday issued a strong condemnation of a February 25 operation conducted by the Delhi Police. The operation resulted in the arrest of three Youth Congress members from a resort in Rohru, Shimla district, in connection with a shirtless protest at the AI Summit. Sukhu emphasized that constitutional norms and the sovereignty of the state must be respected at all times, highlighting the importance of inter-agency coordination.
Questioning BJP Opposition and Law Enforcement
Sukhu questioned why the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to oppose the state government on every issue, including matters related to law enforcement and the demand to continue the revenue deficit grant (RDG) by the Centre. He asserted that the Himachal Pradesh Police has been functioning effectively and responsibly, underscoring the state's capability to handle its own affairs without external interference.
Viral Confrontation and Constitutional Rights
The joint operation by the Delhi and Haryana Police culminated in a dramatic confrontation with the Himachal Pradesh Police, an incident that quickly went viral on social media. While interacting with media persons, the chief minister emphasized that under the Constitution, every state has defined rights and powers, and Himachal Pradesh maintains its own sovereignty. He stated that if any external police agency intends to take an individual from the state, it must inform the local police stations in accordance with the Supreme Court's standard operating procedure (SOP).
Criticism of Police Procedures
Sukhu pointed out that it was inappropriate for Delhi Police personnel, arriving without uniforms, to detain someone from Himachal Pradesh without notifying either the local police or the public. He added that transit remand documents should have been shown by the Delhi Police, and proper coordination should have been maintained to avoid such controversies. The chief minister remarked that prior intimation to the state Director General of Police (DGP) could have prevented the entire incident.
Call for Opposition Accountability
He also said that the former chief minister and present leader of the opposition, Jai Ram Thakur, should acknowledge that due information ought to have been provided before such action. Sukhu questioned the role of the local police if outside forces act independently, reinforcing the need for adherence to established protocols to uphold law and order effectively.
