Himachal CM Promises Timely Salaries Amid Economic Concerns

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu assured timely release of state employees' salaries and pensions starting next month, addressing financial concerns in the Vidhan Sabha. He highlighted fiscal discipline efforts, while Opposition leader Jairam Thakur claimed financial strain and accused CM of mismanagement and reliance on central funding.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed the assembly on Wednesday, tackling concerns about delayed salaries and pensions for state employees. Assuring members of the Vidhan Sabha, Sukhu committed to releasing salaries and pensions on the 1st of each month starting next cycle, highlighting the government's efforts towards fiscal prudence and financial discipline.

During the session, Opposition leader Jairam Thakur raised a point of order, accusing the ruling Congress government of pushing the state towards an economic emergency. He blamed the government's policies for the state's deteriorating financial health, alleging it was heavily reliant on central assistance and loans to cover employee costs. Sukhu refuted claims of an economic crisis, asserting that the delay was a strategic move to enforce financial discipline, resulting in significant savings on loan interest.

Sukhu acknowledged the financial strain, noting the necessity of Rs 1,200 crore for salaries and Rs 800 crore for pensions each month, often requiring loans to meet these demands. Criticizing the culture of election freebies, he cautioned against such promises. Thakur countered, crediting central funds for the state's ability to pay employees and accusing the current administration of shirking responsibilities. He outlined the dependency on upcoming central grants and tax shares to fulfill pension and salary obligations.

(With inputs from agencies.)