States » NorthPosted at: Jul 3 2025 12:31AM


Minister Anirudh Singh denies assault allegations by NHAI official

Shimla, July 2 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh today strongly refuted the allegations of assault levelled against him by NHAI Project manager Achal Jindal.
Calling the FIR “completely baseless and fabricated”, he claimed it was an attempt to divert attention from the negligence of NHAI in ongoing road construction projects, which he alleged are responsible for widespread damage to homes and farmlands.
Addressing the media, Singh said, “The allegations in the FIR are utterly false. NHAI officials and contractors are carrying out hill cutting in an unscientific manner, resulting in house collapses and destruction of orchards and agricultural land. The authority turns a blind eye to these issues and only talks about compensation. Is compensation enough for those who have lost their homes and families?”
He also questioned the conduct of NHAI officials, stating that their statements on the alleged incident were inconsistent.
“First, they said there was no assault, then changed their version. Now, they are trying to cover up their own faults by lodging an FIR,” he added.
Singh maintained that thousands of complaints have been submitted to district administrations regarding NHAI’s construction practices.
The minister announced his intention to meet Union Minister Nitin Gadkari soon to raise the issue of NHAI’s alleged negligence in Himachal Pradesh.
He urged the Centre to formulate national-level policies to prevent such disasters.
Responding to former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur's criticism, Singh said, “Instead of defending a negligent company, Jairam Thakur should understand the pain of the people. Why isn’t he seeking help from the Centre for the victims?”
In contrast, NHAI Project manager Achal Jindal has filed an FIR (first information report) accusing Minister Anirudh Singh of assaulting him and obstructing official work. Jindal claimed the alleged incident occurred during a disaster management visit, where he was verbally abused and physically manhandled by the minister.
While the matter is now under investigation, both sides remain firm on their positions. The truth behind the allegations is expected to emerge as the inquiry progresses.
UNI ML SS
Tags: #Minister Anirudh Singh denies assault allegations by NHAI official
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