Himachal CM Sukhu Launches Scathing Attack on BJP, Labels Party 'Anti-Himachal'
In a sharp critique, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of being "anti-Himachal", highlighting its failure to back the state government before the Centre on critical issues such as the revenue deficit grant and disaster relief. He questioned why BJP leaders did not accompany the state delegation to meet the Prime Minister while Himachal was seeking its rightful financial dues.
Allegations of Fiscal Mismanagement and Debt Burden
Sukhu alleged that during the BJP's tenure, Himachal Pradesh was saddled with a staggering debt of Rs 76,633 crore. He claimed that the previous government distributed nearly Rs 5,000 crore in 'freebies' during election periods, which severely weakened the state's financial health. Despite receiving approximately Rs 60,000 crore more from the Centre compared to the current administration, the BJP failed to utilize these funds effectively. Instead, Sukhu asserted that the resources were misused, plunging the state deeper into debt. He emphasized that with proper utilization, Himachal could have been debt-free today.
Contrasting Governance Approaches and Policy Initiatives
The Chief Minister contrasted the BJP's policies, which he said were consistently against state interests and neglected public welfare, with his government's efforts over the past 40 months. He highlighted a focus on Vyavastha Parivartan (systemic change), prioritizing public service, introducing policy reforms, enacting new laws, and curbing corruption, all of which are yielding positive outcomes. Sukhu stated that the people of Himachal have now recognized the truth, accusing the BJP of desperate attempts to gain power through social media manipulation and false claims to defame the present government.
Industrial and Energy Development Initiatives
On the development front, Sukhu pointed to the transformative Bulk Drug Park project in Una, which is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs in the district and usher in a new era of industrial growth. In the energy sector, efforts are underway to establish Una as a leader in solar power, including the installation of a solar plant in Pekhubela and the development of similar projects across the state.
Revenue Deficit Grant Discontinuation and Political Criticism
Sukhu added that the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) has caused an estimated loss of Rs 50,000 crore to Himachal Pradesh, stressing that this amount is the state's right, not charity. He also criticized the BJP for internal factionalism, noting that the party is divided into five groups in the state. Sukhu alleged that opposition leader Jai Ram Thakur is under pressure to retain his position, leading him to issue frequent statements against the Congress merely to stay in the media spotlight.
