HP minister slams Dhumal for 'govt-cement firms nexus' charges

Himachal Pradesh Industries Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has slammed former Chief Minister P K Dhumal for alleging that the recent "hike in cement prices" was a result of nexus between the government and cement companies.
Denying the allegations, Agnihotri today said "such nexus existed during the Dhumal regime" when the state's interests had been mortgaged with private firms.
"It was only after the Congress came to power that action was initiated against cement companies," he said in a statement.
He also alleged that the erstwhile Dhumal government "showered special favours on cement companies and gave them a free hand".
The minister said that efforts were being made to control cement prices, but the companies were not refraining from increasing the price. "All options were open to take action against these companies and the state government will not hesitate in taking tough action against them," he added.

Ridiculing Dhumal's allegations, Agnihotri said that as a responsible politician the former Chief Minister should issue statements based on facts.