Chandigarh, March 5: A political row has erupted over the treatment of Punjab tourists in Himachal Pradesh after a local MLA called for a crackdown on “mischievous elements” from outside the state. Anuradha Rana, the MLA representing the Lahaul-Spiti region, affirmed that police have been instructed to maintain the area’s peace by strictly penalizing those who create a “ruckus.”
Pritpal Singh Baliawal, a spokesperson for the Punjab BJP, asserted that these orders have led to the harassment of Punjabi travelers. He stated that the enforcement of fines has intensified significantly since the MLA’s public declaration, claiming that thousands of Punjabis have already been issued challans.
“She is calling our people ‘naughty elements’ and on her orders, thousands of our people who went to Himachal from Punjab were issued challans,” Baliawal declared in his rebuttal. He maintained that using such terminology creates an atmosphere of hostility between the two neighboring states.
The controversy stems from a social media post where Rana stated that the SP of Lahaul-Spiti would lead a QRT to ensure discipline among visitors. She maintained that while the district remains open to tourists, any behavior that “spreads filth” or disturbs the harmony of the valley will be met with zero tolerance.
Baliawal asserted that the Himachal government appears to be acting against the interests of Punjabis, noting that the relationship between the two regions should be one of mutual respect. He stated that the labeling of tourists as “mischievous” is an insult to the cultural and economic ties shared by Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
The Punjab leader further affirmed that the state government in Himachal should reconsider its approach to ensure that genuine travelers are not discouraged by aggressive policing and disparaging language.
