Himachal's CM Sukhu Revives Vigilance Committee After 11 Years

In a significant move, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhuvinder Singh Sukhu chaired the State Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee meeting on Monday, revitalizing it after a gap of 11 years. According to an official release, this meeting, constituted under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1995 and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1985, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these laws in fostering social justice. Committee members took the opportunity to present detailed suggestions during the proceedings.

CM Sukhu acknowledged the legislative foresight of the Congress Party and Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar in enacting these laws and emphasized their instrumental role in achieving social parity in the state. As part of the discussion, he announced the appointment of the Additional Chief Secretary of the Social Justice and Empowerment Department as the nodal officer to fortify the administrative framework. Furthermore, he noted that inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's principles, the government has been committedly working for Scheduled Caste welfare, ensuring a significant reduction in untouchability in the region.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil (Retd) highlighted the government's dedication to 25.19% of the population, which belongs to Scheduled Castes, through reservations and welfare schemes promoting social harmony. He reinforced the constitutional mandate against untouchability and caste discrimination, warning of strict penalties for violations. The high-profile meeting witnessed participation from several key officials, including Youth Services and Sports Minister Yadvendra Goma and Director of Social Justice and Empowerment Sumit Kimta, underlining its importance. (ANI)