Budget Announcement Sparks Fresh Political Debates in Himachal
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Dharamshala: The political climate in Himachal Pradesh had briefly cooled following the by-election results, but recent budget announcements by the central government have reignited debates in the state. Both the BJP and Congress, featuring astute political figures, are scrutinizing the new budget.
Congress leaders have criticized the budget, primarily arguing that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman failed to specify the amounts allocated. They contend that the central government has overlooked the state’s rehabilitation efforts following the 2023 disaster.
In contrast, BJP leaders accuse the state government of persistently criticizing the Modi administration. They assert that the central government has provided all necessary support, yet the current Congress Chief Minister has not acknowledged the relief efforts.
BJP Responses:
– Sudhir Sharma (BJP MLA, Dharamshala): “The budget will boost the economy of the entire country, including all states. If the Chief Minister, Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, has never thanked the central government for the relief provided, why make a fuss now?”
– Pawan Kajal (BJP MLA, Kangra): “The budget is people-friendly. The claims of inadequate relief are baseless. Despite receiving sufficient funds from the central government, the ruling Congress continues to criticize PM Modi for not supporting the state. They are perpetuating false statements.”
Congress Responses:
– Ashish Butail (Congress MLA, Palampur and Chief Parliamentary Secretary in the state government): “The budget will make the rich richer and the poor poorer. There are no talks of permanent employment, only outsourcing and temporary jobs. Moreover, while other hilly states were mentioned, Himachal Pradesh was ignored.”
– Bhawani Singh Pathania (Congress MLA, Fatehpur and Chief Parliamentary Secretary in the state government): “The central government has increased taxes on both short-term and long-term capital gains, directly impacting the middle and lower-middle classes. It is clear they have not provided any disaster relief to Himachal.”
