Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been forced to set the record straight after receiving negative media coverage regarding rumours of a so-called “Toilet Tax”.
Addressing the media in New Delhi, CM Sukhu categorically denied any such tax had been imposed or even proposed in the state, calling the allegations baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking on the matter, CM Sukhu said, “These claims of a ‘Toilet Tax’ are entirely fabricated. The BJP is attempting to politicise this issue, especially in light of the upcoming Haryana Vidhan Sabha elections, where they’re playing either the religion card or using this manufactured tax issue. Such tactics should not be used to mislead the public.”
Also Read: https://thenewzradar.com/reality-of-toilet-seat-controversy-a-case-of-mismanagement-at-top-level/
The controversy appears to have surfaced amidst ongoing political tensions, with the BJP attacking the state government’s policies. The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to highlight the financial mismanagement of the previous BJP administration, stating that ahead of the 2022 Vidhan Sabha elections, the BJP had introduced free sops worth Rs 5,000 crore, including free water provisions, in a bid to secure votes. Despite this, he emphasised, the people of Himachal Pradesh voted decisively in favour of the Congress.
Defending the current government’s approach to water management, CM Sukhu explained that the Congress government had rationalised the water subsidy system, imposing a minimal charge of Rs 100 per connection per month in rural areas. He stressed that families capable of paying these bills have no issue doing so in the interest of the state’s fiscal health.
In a further escalation of the issue, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the Himachal Pradesh government, accusing it of mismanagement and imposing undue financial burdens on the common people.
“The Himachal government is taking steps that disproportionately affect the poor, all while pretending to offer subsidies. Such measures are irresponsible and indicative of poor governance,” Sitharaman stated, adding fuel to the growing political debate.
With opposition parties seizing on the issue, CM Sukhu’s clarification is an attempt to quell the mounting pressure and prevent further political fallout.
