Sukhu Govt’s Election Promises Face Mixed Reactions After Two Years
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Dharamshala:– As the Sukhu-led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh completes two years in office, its “10 guarantees” – promises made during the 2022 Assembly elections – have come under public and political scrutiny.
BJP spokesperson and media co-incharge Advocate Vishva Chakshu has raised questions regarding the government’s progress, particularly regarding allowances for women, job creation, and the state’s economic strategy. Meanwhile, the government maintains that significant progress has been made despite financial challenges.
Chakshu pointed to delays in the implementation of several key promises, particularly the ₹1,500 monthly financial support to women across Himachal Pradesh. “Women are waiting for the assistance promised to them, and as per our estimates, the state now owes over ₹8,000 crore to these women,” he claimed.
He further criticized the government for falling short on pledges such as creating five lakh jobs for youth, establishing a ₹680 crore start-up fund, and providing 300 units of free electricity.
“Instead of action, we hear constant blame on the central government or natural disasters to justify their inability to fulfill these promises,” he added.
Another area of contention involves the agricultural sector. The BJP spokesperson questioned the government’s unfulfilled commitment to purchase cow and buffalo milk at enhanced rates and to buy cow dung at ₹2 per kilogram. “The apple growers, who were promised control over their pricing, also remain uncertain about their future,” said Chakshu.
Responding to these claims, a government official, speaking anonymously, acknowledged some delays but attributed them to financial and natural challenges.
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“The impact of the recent disaster in Himachal Pradesh and a substantial debt inherited by this administration has hindered some of our initiatives,” the official explained.
However, he maintained that progress is being made, particularly in welfare schemes. “The Old Pension Scheme (OPS) has been restored, and while there have been changes, the government remains committed to benefiting the people of Himachal,” he added.
Another official from the Finance Department highlighted efforts to stabilize the economy. “While VAT on petroleum was adjusted, the measure was necessary to cover essential expenses given the financial limitations.
These adjustments are short-term, and the government is constantly working on increasing revenue to ensure all promises are met,” the official remarked.
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Vishva Chakshu argued that the government’s debt and expenditure management practices are problematic, cautioning that these choices may impact future expenditures, including salaries and pensions. “We see rising debt as the government borrows money, which only adds a burden on Himachal’s economy,” he said.
In response, a Congress spokesperson defended the administration’s budget allocations, noting that increased spending was necessary to address public welfare needs while also investing in disaster recovery efforts.
The public, particularly women awaiting the ₹1,500 allowance, remain hopeful but uncertain. Many acknowledge the government’s efforts amid the challenges yet expect timely support as committed.
Observers believe the government’s ability to deliver on its pledges in the coming years will significantly shape its public perception and political standing in Himachal Pradesh.
