TNR News Network
Dharamshala
Congress spokesperson Puneet Malli has countered BJP’s criticism over Himachal Pradesh’s rising debt and the new Chief Minister’s office, urging the opposition to first present an account of its own tenure.
Malli stressed that the new CM office is “not anyone’s personal property but a permanent institutional asset of the Himachal government.” The ₹20‑crore complex includes offices for the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary, and visitor facilities. He noted that future CMs will also operate from the same building.
On finances, Malli said the Congress government is addressing challenges transparently, targeting a fiscal deficit of about 3.5% of GSDP in the 2026‑27 budget. The budget also provides ₹4,840 crore for debt repayment, with total liabilities projected at 40.5% of GSDP. He emphasized that the government is working to strengthen revenue and curb unnecessary expenditure while balancing the needs of employees, pensioners, and development projects.
Accusing BJP of selective politics, Malli asked why the opposition highlights only the cost of one building while staying silent on the state’s overall financial history. He added that if BJP wants a serious debate, the Congress is ready to respond with data on debt, central assistance, and expenditure patterns.
