Is CM Sukhu’s chair under threat as Himachal faces unprecedented economic crisis?
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MANDI: Himachal Pradesh is facing a severe financial crisis with state government employees and pensioners not receiving their salaries and pensions even on the fourth day of the month in September, something happening for the first time in the state’s history.
The Congress regime, under first-time Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is facing mounting pressure from various quarters. The issue has drawn nationwide attention, raising questions about the current administration’s capability. The BJP has been targeting former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, drawing parallels between his “khatakat” analogy for rollout of schemes and the unprecedented economic crisis that has befallen Himachal.
Unrealistic poll promises to blame?
The economic strain has intensified following the government’s promises of free electricity, water, bus fares, pensions and a monthly grant of Rs 1,500 for all women aged 18 and above. These promises, made during the election campaign, were “unrealistic” given the state’s limited revenue sources and existing debt burden, says an analyst. Now, as the government attempts to fulfill these commitments, it is struggling to manage the financial fallout.
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Economic crisis after political trouble
Despite overcoming a political crisis earlier this year, CM Sukhu now faces criticism from both within his party and from the central leadership in Delhi. The discontent has reached such levels that there are discussions about potential leadership changes. Sources suggest that the Congress’ top brass is considering replacing Sukhu due to dissatisfaction with his handling of the economic crisis.
There is speculation that Mukesh Agnihotri, an ally of former Chief Minister late Virbhadra Singh, could be appointed as Sukhu’s successor. Additionally, discussions are circulating about the possibility of Vikramaditya Singh being named Deputy Chief Minister. Although these changes have not been officially confirmed, the growing unrest indicates a critical juncture for Sukhu’s tenure.
Sukhu’s close aides fail to support him
It has also come to light that Sukhu’s cabinet ministers, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs), MLAs and media advisers have distanced themselves from the current financial mess as none of them have come forward to support the Chief Minister in this hour of crisis. Their silence is causing discontent within the party, which came to power promising numerous freebies to the people.
The Himachal government is burdened with monthly expenditures of Rs 1,200 crore for salaries and Rs 800 crore for pensions. In light of these financial pressures, Sukhu has asserted that the state was not in an economic crisis but was undergoing a process of financial discipline. He has accused the opposition of inflating the issue and blamed previous administrations for the current predicament.
