Panchkula, April 27
Himachal Pradesh former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur on Monday launched a sharp attack on the state Congress government, alleging financial mismanagement, unfulfilled promises, and a decline in governance.
Addressing a press conference in Panchkula, Thakur said the current situation in Himachal Pradesh is unprecedented. He pointed out that the state budget this year has been reduced by Rs 4,000 crore compared to the previous year, and several welfare schemes are on the verge of closure.
He claimed that the state’s financial condition has deteriorated significantly, with debt rising to around Rs 1,01,000 crore. According to him, the government is struggling to pay salaries and pensions, creating what he described as a “financial emergency-like” situation. He added that any move to defer employees’ or public representatives’ salaries would send a negative signal about the state’s economic health.
Thakur alleged that the Congress came to power on promises that have not been fulfilled. He cited commitments such as providing five lakh jobs, 300 units of free electricity, and better returns to farmers, stating that these remain largely unimplemented. He also accused the state leadership of making misleading claims about the delivery of guarantees.
Referring to governance issues, Thakur said that Himachal Pradesh has witnessed administrative setbacks and that development work has slowed. He also claimed that political instability marked the early phase of the government, pointing to defections by legislators.
On Centre-state relations, he said the Union government led by Narendra Modi has continued to support Himachal Pradesh through various initiatives and financial assistance. He also referred to the push for women’s reservation, stating that the Centre remains committed to ensuring 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures.
Taking aim at the opposition leadership, Thakur criticised Rahul Gandhi, alleging a lack of seriousness on key legislative matters and calling the Congress leadership “visionless.”
Responding to allegations of “Operation Lotus” in Punjab, Thakur said elected representatives are free to act according to their conscience in a democracy. He added that defections reflect internal issues within parties rather than external influence.
Thakur further claimed that several institutions in Himachal Pradesh are being shut down and that subsidies may be withdrawn due to financial constraints. He alleged that even elected representatives are wary of inviting the government to their constituencies over concerns of closures.
Commenting on political developments in West Bengal, he said the high voter turnout in recent elections indicates a desire for change, adding that people are seeking relief from violence and instability.
The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh has not yet responded to the allegations.
