After facing criticism on social media and political backlash, Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil on Saturday postponed his proposed foreign visit along with a 10-member team of health department officials and said it aims to “strengthen” and “modernize healthcare” system.

The minister clarified that the tour has been deferred and will now take place six months later, as he cited the situation in the state triggered by heavy rains.

A row erupted after reports in a section of the media that his son was to accompany him on the trip at government expense. The opposition BJP also targeted him.

Accepting that both his son and daughter-in-law were scheduled to travel, Shandil said they were going on “health grounds” and at personal expense.

“Family members can trav

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