Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu criticized the state BJP, labeling it as ‘anti-Himachal’ for not supporting the state on critical issues like the Revenue Deficit Grant and disaster relief. He questioned why BJP leaders did not stand by the state in meetings with the Prime Minister. Sukhu highlighted that during the BJP’s rule, Himachal Pradesh accumulated a debt of Rs 76,633 crore.
The Chief Minister blamed the previous government for spending nearly Rs 5,000 crore on ‘freebies’ during elections, leading to financial indiscipline. Despite receiving over Rs 60,000 crore from the Centre, the BJP allegedly mismanaged the funds, plunging the state further into debt. Sukhu emphasized that if utilized properly, Himachal could have been debt-free today.
Sukhu pointed out that BJP policies were not in the state’s interest and lacked a focus on public welfare. In contrast, he highlighted his government’s efforts in governance reforms, public service prioritization, policy changes, anti-corruption measures, and positive outcomes. The Chief Minister accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate social media to gain power and discredit the current administration with false allegations.
The Congress-led government introduced various welfare schemes, including monthly aid for underprivileged women, free electricity up to 300 units, and pensions for elderly women. To support natural farming, minimum support prices for wheat, maize, and turmeric were raised to enhance farmers’ incomes. Sukhu reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and self-reliance efforts for the state.
Sukhu highlighted that the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant resulted in a loss of about Rs 50,000 crore for the state. He emphasized that this amount was the state’s entitlement, not a favor.
