Slams CM SUkhu for claiming not much funds received
TNR News Network
Dharamshala:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has hit back at the Himachal Pradesh Congress government’s claims that the Centre did not provide adequate assistance after the 2023 monsoon disaster. Senior BJP spokesperson Trilok Kapoor has issued a press statement asserting that the Modi-led central government extended record financial aid to the state, thereby exposing what he called the state government’s “false propaganda”.
Kapoor stated that following the devastating monsoon calamities of 2023, the central government released substantial funds based on the post-disaster needs assessment (PDNA), a globally accepted scientific and transparent framework.
“The Centre has provided an unprecedented Rs 3,190 crore to Himachal Pradesh, including Rs 494.41 crore released in November 2023 alone,” said Kapoor.
He added that it is unfortunate the state government engaged in petty politics instead of appreciating the timely support provided during a crisis that deeply affected Himachalis.
Says central funds driving reconstruction, not state initiatives
Highlighting specific development projects, Kapoor accused the state government of taking undue credit for works financed by central funds.
“Due to poor financial management, the Congress-led Himachal government had stalled infrastructure work. Today, road and bridge reconstruction is being carried out through the Centre’s PDNA 2023 package,” he said.
He cited examples such as Rs 1.5 crore for the road from Bir to Barot, Rs 1 crore for the Gwal Tikker to Mahesh Garh road. “These are just two of many tenders floated using Central funds, yet the state government is falsely claiming credit,” Kapoor alleged.
Questions raised on transparency, corruption alleged
Kapoor also raised serious concerns over transparency in the utilisation of funds. “Earlier, the state claimed that tenders above Rs 1 lakh would be processed online. But now, after receiving Central aid, tenders up to Rs 5 lakh are being floated offline, creating space for favouritism and corruption,” he said.
Calling this a clear attempt to manipulate the system to benefit select contractors, Kapoor warned the state government against misusing disaster relief funds.
“This money belongs to the people of Himachal. Any attempt at corruption will be strongly opposed. BJP will ensure proper monitoring, auditing, and public accountability of this fund,” he asserted.
Concluding his statement, Kapoor said the BJP-led Centre remains committed to “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”, and reiterated the government’s solidarity with the people of Himachal in times of need.
He urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to abandon political one-upmanship and focus on the honest and transparent use of the massive disaster aid package for rapid and effective reconstruction. “The focus must now be on rebuilding Himachal, not building political narratives,” he said.
