Creation of new districts only after evolving consensus: CM

"The Committee on creation of new districts set up by the government has favoured the move but the government will not take any decision on new districts, including three in Kangra in a haste but try to evolve consensus," he told mediapersons after releasing a book written by woman journalist Meenakshi Chowdhary.

"A large number of people are in favour of new districts while few are also opposed to the move but we will decide on the issue at an appropriate time after due deliberations," he said but did not rule out creation of Mahasu district, as it existed before reorganisation of districts in the state.

Replying to questions on poll preparedness of BJP, Dhumal said the elections would be fought on the plank of development during the BJP rule.

When asked about the land purchased by Priyanka Gandhi near 'Retreat' in Shimla for building a cottage, the Chief Minister said, "It is an honour for the state to permit such high dignitaries and prominent people to construct houses in the state, but the sanction to purchase land was granted by the previous Congress government.

"We have no problem in it but will ensure that land bought by Priyanka Gandhi was utilised for bonafide purpose - horticulture and residence - for which sanction had been accorded," he added.