Shimla, June 4 -- Himachal Minister of Horticulture, Jagat Singh Negi, on Thursday congratulated all newly elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions and urged them to work collectively for the development of their villages, while accusing the BJP of attempting to politicise non-party-based local body elections.

Addressing mediapersons in Shimla, Negi said the Panchayati Raj elections reflected the strength of democracy, where people from different ideologies, age groups and backgrounds were given an opportunity to participate.

"On behalf of the state government and personally, I congratulate all those elected to the Panchayati Raj institutions. These elections have traditionally been kept above party lines, providing equal ...