Former Zila Parishad (ZP) member Bhupender Singh has criticised Health and Family Welfare, Social Justice and Empowerment, and Sainik Welfare Minister Dr (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil, alleging that his visit to Tihra in Sarkaghat subdivision of Mandi district on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas fell short of the expectations of ex-servicemen and local residents.

The criticism came after a state-level Kargil Vijay Diwas function organised by the Indian Ex-Servicemen League, Tihra, under the leadership of Capt Ramesh Tapwal. During the event, the minister inaugurated a martyrs’ memorial constructed at a cost of Rs 20 lakh from the local MLA’s discretionary fund.

According to Bhupender Singh, around 2,000 people, including ex-servicemen, war widows, paramilitary personnel and their families, attended the function. He said the event, including the community meal, was organised through public contributions.

Singh alleged that despite requests from the Dharampur MLA, the minister did not announce any financial assistance for the proposed expansion of the memorial complex, which includes plans for a photo gallery, an office and a military canteen building. He claimed that the minister offered only general assurances, leaving members of the ex-servicemen community disappointed.

The former Zila Parishad member also expressed dissatisfaction over the minister’s decision not to visit the Tihra hospital building, located about 1.5 km from the event venue. Singh said the hospital had been ready for inauguration for nearly two years and required additional funds for its completion.

He further alleged that the minister concluded his visit without making any concrete commitments, resulting in disappointment among ex-servicemen and local residents.