Despite an announcement by Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to roll back the recent hike in entry tax, uncertainty continues to prevail in the border areas of Punjab, with protesters deciding to carry on their agitation until an official notification was issued in that regard.
Residents and protest groups in the border belt have expressed cautious optimism, but remain unconvinced by verbal assurances alone. Leaders spearheading the ongoing agitation have made it clear that their planned dharna will continue on Wednesday, emphasising that only a formal government notification will be considered binding and credible.Meanwhile, political credit over the rollback announcement has triggered a fresh round of statements among Punjab leaders. Senior Congress leader KP Rana attributed the development to the intervention of the party’s leadership. He thanked Bhupesh Baghel for taking up the issue with the Himachal CM.
Rana said the decision had brought significant relief to residents of Punjab’s border districts, who have been adversely affected by the tax. “I thank Bhupesh Baghel and the Himachal CM for addressing the concerns of the people and providing relief,” he said.
Amrinder Singh Raja Warring drew attention after a telephonic conversation with Sukhu went viral on social media. In the call, Sukhu reportedly assured a rollback of the entry toll, particularly for smaller private vehicles.
On the other hand, the ruling AAP sought to underline its role in raising the issue. Dinesh Chadha, who had highlighted the matter in the Assembly, described the Himachal Government’s decision as a “victory of the people.”
