Shimla mayor, her deputy wait for ‘auspicious’ Tuesday to step into new office

SHIMLA:Even as Shimla got its first saffron mayor and deputy mayor on June 20, a suitable ‘Muhurat’ (auspicious time) has kept the duo away from office until Tuesday.

Awaiting a favourable day, newly elected mayor Kusum Sadrate and deputy mayor Rakesh Kumar have not assumed office so far, keeping its staff waiting to welcome them. However, they have met chief minister Virbhadra Singh and his predecessor Prem Kumar Dhumal.

Sources said the office will be “purified” by performing a “havan” on Tuesday before the saffron due take charge of Shimla municipal corporation.

Mayor Kusum Sadrate said she and deputy mayor will join the office on Tuesday. On being asked about the delay in assuming the office, she said, “We have already met senior leaders of the party and CM Virbhadra Singh. There were some holidays in between, so on Tuesday, we will be in the office.”

Everyone, including BJP workers, were expecting new mayor and deputy mayor in the office on June 2. BJP media cell had also informed the press about mayor and her deputy assuming office on June 21 but later corrected saying, “Mayor and deputy mayor will not join the office tomorrow. Next date will be communicated soon.”

On June 17, BJP scripted history by winning maximum seats in the Shimla MC election and capturing mayor and deputy mayor seats when two independents joining the party. Newly elected members were administered the oath of office on June 19.