Jairam Thakur Lashes Out at CM Sukhu Over Himachal Pradesh's Financial Crisis

Opposition Leader Jairam Thakur criticizes Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for blaming former governments and the Central government for the state's financial issues. Thakur underscores the need for responsible financial management, emphasizing the Chief Minister's duty to disburse employee salaries and pensions despite fiscal challenges.

Jairam Thakur, the Leader of the Opposition in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, has issued a scathing critique of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging him to cease blaming previous governments and the Central government for the state's financial woes. Thakur stated that it is the Chief Minister's responsibility to ensure salaries and pensions are paid.

Thakur highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has a large number of employees relative to its population, with approximately 39-40% of the budget allocated to salaries and pensions. He noted a committed liability of Rs 2000 crore required to cover these expenditures.

Thakur further criticized the Chief Minister for increasing the prices of essential goods and services amidst the state's dire financial condition. He called for a balanced approach to managing resources and halting unnecessary expenditures. Thakur also condemned Sukhu's inconsistent statements regarding the state's financial health.

Earlier, BJP national spokesperson C R Kesavan lambasted the Himachal government, accusing it of financial mismanagement influenced by Congress's economic policies. Kesavan claimed the state's financial situation has been led to the brink of bankruptcy due to reckless and false promises.

(With inputs from agencies.)