Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu rejected claims made in a recent Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) report on Wednesday that named him the richest Chief Minister in North India. He alleged the report was being politicised to damage his reputation.

Speaking in Shimla, Sukhu stated, “The property has been mentioned in my election affidavit for the last 20 years. Nothing new has been added. Unfortunately, an old declaration is being projected now to create an impression that I have suddenly accumulated wealth. This is a political attempt to tarnish my image.”

He explained that the asset valuations cited reflect current assessed values, though the properties were acquired years ago. The Chief Minister added that his personal assets had decreased since taking office and that this would be evident in his next election affidavit. “Since I became the Chief Minister, my assets have actually reduced. That will be reflected in my next election affidavit,” he said.

Sukhu dismissed allegations questioning the source of his wealth, asserting it was accumulated through decades of honest work. “I have worked in Shimla for nearly 40 years. With hard work and honesty, any person from an ordinary family can build assets. If anyone has doubts, they are free to get the matter verified by agencies such as the ED or the CBI. I have nothing to hide,” he added.

On political defections, Sukhu emphasised the Congress party’s commitment to its ideology and dismissed opportunistic politics. “If someone wants to leave a party, no one can stop them. But we need people committed to the Congress ideology. Leaders from the BJP often approach us before elections when they do not get party tickets, but we are not interested in those who change sides for personal gain,” he said.

The Chief Minister also criticised the BJP, alleging the party had become linked to corruption and electoral funding controversies.

Addressing education, Sukhu supported Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on the need for an Education Minister focused on students’ interests. “Rahul Gandhi is right. The country needs an Education Minister who focuses on education and does not play with the future of students,” he said.

Regarding recent comments by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann about Himachal Pradesh’s youth, Sukhu said he would discuss the matter with Mann and urged against politicising such statements. “I will speak to the Punjab Chief Minister. It is wrong to give a political colour to remarks concerning the welfare of the youth. Such issues should not be politicised,” he noted.

Finally, Sukhu said he would assess damage caused by heavy rains in Chamba district during an upcoming visit and consult relevant authorities about the situation.