Manmohan criticises BJPs record in Himachal Pradeshs development

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for covering up its no-show in Himachal Pradeshs economic development by raising religious and regional issues.

Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh), Dec 17 : Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for covering up its no-show in Himachal Pradesh's economic development by raising religious and regional issues.

Campaigning for the Congress party in the state, Dr. Singh said the economic progress of the state had come to a halt every time BJP ruled the state since its inception in 1966.

Addressing an election rally in Bilaspur, he said the BJP has nothing to show as developmental achievements and is basing its poll campaign on religious, caste and regional issues.

"Due to hard work of Congress rule in the state and the assistance of the UPA government at the Centre, Himachal Pradesh had achieved a growth rate of over 9.5 percent last year," Dr. Singh said.

He asked the people to return Congress to power in the state for continuity of progress.

He said while the hill state witnessed accelerated growth whenever Congress had been in power, the progress was halted when BJP ruled Himachal Pradesh.

The campaign for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections has come to an end on Monday evening.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh led the campaign for Congress return to power, while the BJP campaign was spearheaded by Santa Kumar and Prem Kumar Dhumal.

The term of the State Legislative Assembly is due to expire on March 9, 2008.

With over 4.5 million people eligible to cast their votes, the second phase of the election is likely to see an interesting contest.

The first phase of election was held on November 14. The second phase of elections for the 65 seats in 68-member State Assembly is scheduled for December 19. The results will be announced by the end of the month.

ANI