Shimla: BJP candidate from Dehra in the 2024 by-election, Hoshiyar Singh, filed an election petition in the Himachal Pradesh High Court, challenging the election of Kamlesh Kumari, wife of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
In his petition, “Singh accused the Chief Minister of misusing state machinery and facilitating the transfer of funds to women’s self-help groups (SHGs) in Dehra during the Model Code of Conduct period.”
The BJP alleged that funds from the Kangra Central Cooperative Bank were deposited into the bank accounts of several SHGs just a week before polling, terming it a clear violation of the election code of conduct.
Party leaders claim that this disbursement of funds influenced voters and amounted to “cash for votes.” They have demanded that the election be declared null and void.
Legal experts say the matter could have far-reaching political implications, as the High Court would examine whether the alleged financial transfers constitute a corrupt electoral practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
