Former Himachal CM Jai Ram Thakur Slams State Government Over MLA Priorities
In a sharp critique from Shimla, former chief minister and leader of opposition in the Himachal Pradesh assembly, Jai Ram Thakur, has leveled serious allegations against the state government. On Wednesday, Thakur accused the ruling administration of systematically ignoring the priorities submitted by BJP MLAs for their constituencies over the past three years.
Allegations of Delays and Favoritism in Development Projects
In a detailed press statement, the former chief minister claimed that despite the government completing three years in office, there has been a persistent failure to address key development needs. Thakur asserted that detailed project reports (DPRs) are not being prepared in a timely manner, financial approvals are being unnecessarily delayed, and numerous projects remain stuck in bureaucratic files without progress.
"The government is showing blatant favoritism, deliberately ignoring the opposition legislators' work and denying them financial sanctions," Thakur stated emphatically. He highlighted that this approach has created significant hurdles for constituency development across the state.
Unprecedented Suspension of MLA Funds and Infrastructure Neglect
Thakur brought attention to what he described as an unprecedented move in the state's political history. For the first time ever, both MLA funds and discretionary funds have been suspended, leaving legislators from the opposition party unable to carry out essential development works in their respective areas.
The BJP leader pointed out that this financial blockage has particularly impacted critical infrastructure projects. Drinking water initiatives, bridge constructions, and other vital development works have remained unattended, which Thakur argues has exacerbated the state's disaster management situation during challenging times.
Call for Immediate Action and Warning of Political Boycott
Thakur directly appealed to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to rise above political biases and take immediate corrective measures. He urged the release of both MLA funds and discretionary grants without further delay to facilitate development activities across constituencies.
The opposition leader stressed that the government must ensure proper preparation of DPRs and timely budget approvals for MLA priorities to restore normal development processes. Thakur issued a stern warning that if the government continues to neglect these concerns, the BJP would have no alternative but to boycott the upcoming MLA priority meeting, potentially escalating political tensions in the state assembly.
This development highlights ongoing political friction in Himachal Pradesh, with the opposition accusing the ruling party of using administrative mechanisms to undermine their development efforts and constituency representation.
