India, April 18 -- A political storm has erupted in Himachal Pradesh after a bill of Rs.1.22 lakh for a Holi-cum-retirement party hosted by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena was reportedly sent to the General Administration Department (GAD) for payment. The BJP has slammed the move as a gross violation of ethical conduct and a mockery of administrative discipline, especially when the state is battling a staggering Rs.1 lakh crore debt.

The controversy broke out after a copy of the bill, allegedly issued by Hotel Holiday Home of the HP Tourism Development Corporation, surfaced online. According to the document, lunch and snacks were served on March 14 to 75 guests, including IAS, IPS, and IFS officers and their families. It also covered meal...