Under fire from BJP, Lahaul-Spiti Congress MLA blames Centre as budget for tribal segment slashed by 71%

MANDI: A significant reduction in the annual budget allocation for Lahaul-Spiti has sparked strong reactions from opposition leaders and local representatives, who have accused the Himachal Pradesh government of ignoring the developmental needs of the tribal district.

As per official data from the Integrated Tribal Development Project, the budget for the district has been reduced by nearly 71 per cent, dropping from ₹88 crore in the financial year 2024–25 to just around ₹24 crore in the current fiscal.

The drastic cut has raised serious concerns about the continuity of essential infrastructure and welfare projects in this remote and high-altitude region.

Pending payments and stalled progress

Adding to the concern, an estimated ₹15 crore in dues remains unpaid across several departments, including Public Works and Jal Shakti. The lack of adequate funds is likely to stall ongoing works and delay new development initiatives, leaving residents in a state of uncertainty.

Grave injustice to tribal communities: Ex-MLA Ravi Thakur

Former MLA and BJP leader Ravi Thakur condemned the government’s decision, calling it a grave injustice with the people of Lahaul-Spiti.
“The funds allocated for 2025–26 are barely enough to clear last year’s outstanding bills. In such circumstances, how can we expect any progress?” he questioned.

Ravi Thakur said the state government has failed to uphold its responsibility towards tribal regions by slashing the budget by more than 70 per cent.

Former BJP minister Markanda attacks Sukhu govt

Former Minister and convener of the Lahaul-Spiti Vikas Manch, Dr Ram Lal Markanda, also criticised the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government, citing a dramatic decline in the district’s financial support.

“During my tenure, Lahaul-Spiti’s budget had reached ₹159 crore. Under the current government, it has dropped to ₹24 crore,” he said.

Markanda said several bills submitted to the treasury were returned and will now have to be cleared from the already reduced budget.

First budget by Anuradha Rana disappointing: Kunga Bodh

Zila parishad member Kunga Bodh, a former Congress Assembly bypoll ticket contender, expressed disappointment over the budget presented under local MLA Anuradha Rana’s leadership.

“This is one of the most disheartening budgets the district has received. From ₹85 crore last year to just ₹24 crore now, this cut will severely impact ground-level development,” he remarked.

Kunga stressed that promises alone could not drive progress and financial commitment was critical for meaningful change.

MLA Anuradha Rana blames the Centre

Responding to the criticism, MLA Anuradha Rana placed responsibility on the Central Government, alleging discriminatory funding practices against non-BJP ruled states.
“The Centre has drastically reduced Himachal Pradesh’s budget allocation, pushing the state into financial distress,” she said.

According to Rana, the state earlier received ₹9,000 crore during the BJP’s tenure at the Centre, which has now been curtailed to ₹2,700 crore. She, however, praised Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for continuing to lead the state despite difficult financial circumstances.

Munish Sood