BJP leaders keep watch on Himachal situation, to meet governor for trust vote
Congress, BJP is keeping a close watch on the developing political situation in Himachal Pradesh. Earlier in the day, the party demanded division of votes on the budget in the assembly. But before that, 15 BJP MLAs, including leader of the opposition, Jairam Thakur, were suspended from the assembly.
«The Congress government in the state is in minority. They couldn't pass the budget on division of votes. Therefore, they have suspended 15 MLAs of our party. This has happened for the first time in the history of Himachal Pradesh,» Thakur told media persons outside the assembly.
The six rebel Congress MLAs, who had come from Panchkula to attend the budget session, went back after the assembly was adjourned. Sources in BJP told ET that these MLAs are now supporting BJP along with three independent MLAs.
The party is planning to meet the governor on Thursday to demand a vote of confidence.
As per BJP sources, more Congress MLAs are willing to join hands with the party to oust the Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu government in the state. BJP has 25 MLAs in the 68-member assembly. With the support of six rebel Congress MLAs and three independents, the number goes up to 34, which is the number of votes it got in the Rajya Sabha elections. The majority mark in Himachal Pradesh is 35. The party would need the support of more MLAs if it wants to form the government.
BJP is moving cautiously and is not in any hurry to form the government. However, inside the party, they are ready to take advantage of the opportunity and will take a
