Himachal CM Sukhu Unveils Major Development Initiatives in Bilaspur District
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed a significant public gathering at Barthin in the Jhandutta Assembly constituency of Bilaspur district on Thursday. During his visit, he made several key announcements aimed at boosting local infrastructure and education.
Infrastructure and Educational Upgrades Announced
The Chief Minister allocated Rs 2.5 crore for the construction of two crucial bridges. This funding will support the Re-Radoh bridge and a bridge at Dadhog Tappay village, enhancing connectivity in the region. Additionally, Sukhu revealed plans to bring schools at Barthin, Gehadvi, and Jhandutta under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum, aiming to improve educational standards.
Further administrative and healthcare improvements were announced, including the opening of a sub-tehsil at Talai, a cooperative bank at Malhot, and the upgradation of the Primary Health Centre at Kalol. In a solemn moment, the CM honoured the family of late Shaurya Chakra awardee Baldev Chand, recognizing their sacrifice.
Political Critique and Financial Allegations
Launching a sharp attack on the previous BJP government, Sukhu accused it of misusing funds for political gain. "The previous BJP government spent Rs 5,000 crore for political purposes instead of distributing it among the people," he stated. He highlighted that the present Congress government inherited liabilities of Rs 50,000 crore, including loans, from the BJP administration.
Sukhu emphasized his government's efforts to create new income sources and curb corruption. While the government took loans of Rs 23,000 crore, it repaid Rs 26,000 crore towards principal and interest, showcasing fiscal responsibility, according to the CM.
Central Grants Halted: A "Black Day" for Himachal
The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the cessation of central grants. He noted that for 73 years, Himachal Pradesh received grants as per constitutional provisions, but these have now been stopped. "February 1 is a black day in Himachal's history," Sukhu declared, referring to when the Central Government halted annual grants of nearly Rs 10,000 crore.
He pointed out that 68 percent of the state's land is forest land, with people surviving on the remaining 32 percent, which has been neglected. Sukhu questioned BJP MPs and MLAs, asking if they would raise their voice against the estimated Rs 50,000 crore loss over five years. He called this an attack on people's rights and vowed to continue the fight with public support, even offering to go to Delhi under BJP leadership to advocate for the state.
Commitment to Old Pension Scheme and Fishermen
Sukhu reaffirmed his government's commitment to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), despite pressure to discontinue it. "As long as there is a Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, OPS will not be stopped," he asserted. He claimed that the Central Government withheld Rs 1,600 crore in assistance due to the implementation of OPS.
In a move to support local communities, the CM announced a reduction in royalty for fishermen from 15 percent to 7.5 percent, with plans for further reductions in the future.
Disaster Management and Compensation Enhancements
The Chief Minister criticized BJP MPs for remaining silent in Parliament regarding disaster losses assessed at Rs 9,300 crore by a central team. He highlighted his personal visits to every disaster-affected area, including Jhandutta.
Without public demand, the government increased compensation for collapsed houses from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh, and provided rent assistance of Rs 10,000 in towns and Rs 5,000 in villages. Sukhu described this proactive approach as a real change in governance, emphasizing empathy for affected citizens.
Additional Development Projects and Inaugurations
During his visit, Sukhu inaugurated the administrative building of the Government Polytechnic in Kalol, named after Param Vir Chakra awardee Naib Subedar Sanjay Kumar. The building was constructed at a cost of Rs 3.30 crore.
He also laid foundation stones for several projects:
- Upgradation of the Ghumarwin-Barthin-Shahtalai road at a cost of Rs 12.88 crore.
- Revised sewerage scheme for Shahtalai town costing Rs 25 crore.
- Beautification of Charan Ganga at Shahtalai, to be completed at a cost of Rs 1.25 crore.
Sukhu concluded by criticizing the Central Government for weakening the MGNREGA scheme, which was introduced by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to provide employment. He accused BJP MPs of silence on this issue as well, underscoring his government's focus on development and public welfare amidst political challenges.
