"Centre is suppressing dissent...its an attack on the sanctity of democracy," Himachal CM backs Rahul Gandhi's allegation

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 12 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday backed Rahul Gandhi's allegations regarding irregularities in the voter list.
"Rahul Gandhi's allegations are correct. The Election Commission should investigate the matter. INDIA bloc leaders have protested in Delhi over this. The opposition has every right to raise its voice. Without opposition, there can be no healthy democracy, but the Centre is suppressing dissent, which is an attack on the sanctity of democracy," he stated.
Sukhu flagged off a cycle rally and marathon from his official residence, Oak Over, as part of World Youth Day celebrations. The event, organised by the Himachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, aimed to spread awareness among youth about the dangers of drug abuse and HIV.
Health Minister Col. Dhaniram Shandil and MLA Harish Janartha were also present on the occasion.
Speaking to the reporters at the flag-off, CM Sukhu emphasised the need to engage young people in constructive activities to keep them away from social evils.
"The youth are the future of the country. It is essential to keep them alert and away from social ills. Through this marathon, we are sending a strong message to stay away from drugs," Sukhu said.
Addressing media queries, Sukhu dismissed reports that he had been summoned to Delhi by the Congress high command.
"I have no Delhi visit planned at present. These are just newspaper headlines. The decision to form the organisation lies within the jurisdiction of the high command, and it will take a call soon," he clarified.
He further said that the appointment of the new Himachal Pradesh Congress president was "in the pipeline."
On the heavy rainfall and tree fall Incidents and landslides amid heavy rainfall in the state, Sukhu said extreme weather was linked to climate change.
"Due to climate change, we are witnessing excessive rainfall. I have discussed the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Centre had sent a team to study the changes in the environment, and its report is awaited. During the monsoon season, tree falls and landslides are common, but people must remain cautious," he said.
The World Youth Day events in Shimla drew enthusiastic participation from young people, with both the cycle rally and marathon covering key parts of the city to spread awareness messages. (ANI)