He retired from politics in 2017 and his son Ashish Butail was elected as MLA of Palampur in January 2018.

His father and grandfather, Lala Kanhiya Lal Butail were freedom fighters.

[2] He has held the post of Chief Parliamentary Secretary and had independent charge for Food & Civil supplies department.

His son Ashish Butail succeeded him and is the current MLA from Palampur.

He played a key role in helping the Co-operative Tea Industry achieve viability and currently serves as the Chairman of the Kangra Co-operative Tea Factory in Palampur.