Row Erupts After Audio ‘Defaming’ Rahul Gandhi Played In Himachal Govt Bus, Probe Ordered – News18

Last Updated:November 30, 2024, 09:14 IST

The incident occurred on November 5 on a state-run bus operating between Dhalli and Sanjauli, according to officials.

The Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government found itself in a controversy after the State Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) ordered a probe against a bus driver and conductor for allegedly playing an audio clip critical of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the vehicle.

The complaint of the incident, which occurred on November 5 on a state-run bus operating between Dhalli and Sanjauli, was reported to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), prompting the HRTC to initiate action.

The bus staff were served legal notices and asked to submit explanations within three days. According to reports, the driver and conductor have claimed that no such audio defaming Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders was played.

Defaming ‘Audio’ Charges Spark Row

The incident drew sharp criticism from the BJP, acting as a primary opposition party in Himachal Pradesh, which accused the ruling Congress government of misusing its authority.

“It is wrong to harass ordinary employees like drivers and conductors over such matters. Himachal Pradesh is becoming a subject of ridicule due to such actions,” said former minister Sukhram Chaudhary.

Chaudhary further alleged that development in the state has halted, and public welfare schemes are being neglected. “The government is focused on such trivial issues instead of addressing real problems like health facilities and infrastructure,” he added.

Another BJP MLA came to the front and attacked the Congress over the incident. “A driver is responsible for driving, not monitoring what passengers listen to. If the government is so concerned, it should deploy marshals on buses to handle such matters,” said Dharamshala BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma.

The HRTC said that disciplinary action could be taken against the bus driver and conductor if their response is unsatisfactory. It further stated that playing such content in public spaces could violate government regulations.

Location :

Himachal Pradesh, India