Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, June 9
Himachal Pradesh Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan has dismissed opposition allegations of economic mismanagement, asserting that the Congress-led state government remains focused on development despite severe financial constraints. Speaking to reporters, Chauhan criticised the central government for not providing any additional financial aid to the state in the wake of recent natural disasters. “Not a single extra rupee has come from the Centre,” he said, adding that BJP MPs were “spreading falsehoods among the public.”
The minister strongly rejected opposition claims that the government was functioning as a “fee-levying regime.” He clarified that the nominal charge for hospital registration slips was a decision made by the Rogi Kalyan Samiti (Patient Welfare Committee), not by the state cabinet.
Chauhan accused Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur of exaggerating issues and misleading the public. “The central schemes highlighted by BJP leaders are national programmes—applicable across all states—not special assistance to Himachal,” he stated. “These are rights, not acts of charity.”
He blamed the financial crisis on the previous BJP-led administration under Thakur, claiming that poor governance had left the state in a difficult fiscal situation. Despite the setbacks, Chauhan said the current government is committed to rebuilding the economy and delivering development.
In response to allegations of an industrial exodus, the minister said there was no evidence of companies leaving the state. “A few industries may have shut down due to personal or financial reasons, but there is no mass departure,” he said. Chauhan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to attracting investment and supporting local businesses.
With political temperatures rising, financial stability and development have become central themes in the battle between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP ahead of the next electoral contest.
