The opposition BJP Monday walked out during Governor Urmila Singh's address on the opening day of the Himachal Pradesh assembly's budget session, protesting that the party's corruption "charge sheet" was not mentioned in her speech.
As the governor was about to end her over one-hour-long address, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators described the speech as laced with the government's developmental achievements only.
Terming the speech as silent on issues of corruption against the government, the BJP members staged a walkout.
"There was no mention about the party's charge sheet against the government on corruption and prevailing law and order situation," Leader of Opposition Prem Kumar Dhumal told reporters.
He said the government was trying to take credit for schemes accomplished by the previous BJP government.
The former chief minister said the mining mafia was illegally transporting sand and gravel out of the state, while enjoying the patronage of the government.
Official sources said the BJP in a corruption "charge sheet" given to the governor against the government Dec 25 had demanded an inquiry into the mining mafia.
"The mining mafia has been active in the state since the Congress came to power. The mining mafia is enjoying the patronage of Industries Minister Mukesh Agnihotri," the BJP said.
As the house assembled thereafter, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh condemned the BJP's action.
"It's a sign of deep frustration and they have no regard for the constitution, norms and conventions," he said.
In her address, Urmila Singh said the government has recognised the importance of providing prompt and efficient health services.
"A major decision has been taken to provide free generic medicines in all hospitals," she said.
For industrialisation, she said that with the state government's efforts the union government has introduced a new freight subsidy scheme this year for industrial units.
"Work on development of three new state-of-the-art industrial areas in Una, Solan and Kangra districts has been taken up."
The food processing industry, she said, has been accorded high priority.
"A proposal for setting up a food park in Una district has already been cleared."
With the new investments made in the state, exports have reached around Rs.3,000 crore per annum. A common application form has been introduced for clearing medium and large-scale projects within 90 days, the governor said.
For tapping the state's hydropower potential, 8,432 MW of hydel power has been harnessed, she said.
