No Relief, No Announcements: Pathania Questions Nadda’s Visit to Himachal

Dharamshala: Shahpur MLA and Congress leader Kewal Singh Pathania on Wednesday raised serious questions about BJP National President JP Nadda’s recent tour of Himachal Pradesh, calling it “devoid of public relevance” and “politically driven.”

Speaking at a press conference at Dharamshala’s Circuit House, Pathania said that people across the region had high expectations from Nadda’s visit, especially in light of recent natural disasters and pressing healthcare and infrastructure needs. However, according to Pathania, the visit lacked any major policy announcements, financial aid, or development commitments for Himachal.

He particularly criticized the remarks made by Nadda regarding the Bulk Drug Park project proposed in the Una district. “The statements made were selective and didn’t present the full picture,” said Pathania. He alleged that the earlier BJP-led government had proposed leasing out prime industrial land to companies for as low as ₹12 lakh for a lifetime lease and supplying electricity at ₹3 per unit, while the state procures it at around ₹7 per unit. “Such subsidies may attract capital but are not sustainable for a hill state like ours,” he remarked.

Pathania defended the current state government’s decision to return ₹25 crore in central assistance, along with interest. “Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu took a well-considered step by declining terms that would have long-term financial implications. Instead, the state has decided to invest ₹300 crore from its own coffers, ensuring local control and prioritizing employment for Himachalis,” he said.

The Congress MLA further said that Himachal Pradesh is a consumption-based economy rather than a production-intensive one. “Given our economic structure, we don’t benefit significantly from GST. Without local manufacturing, the state’s revenue does not increase proportionally,” he explained.

Pathania also expressed concern over the status of Chamba, which remains categorized as an “aspirational district” despite hosting major NHPC hydroelectric projects. “Power worth thousands of crores is generated here, yet the local population remains underserved. The Centre must ensure revenue-sharing models that directly benefit such regions,” he said.

He noted that while national leaders are welcome to visit the state, the people expect more than rhetoric. “This was a missed opportunity to announce concrete relief for disaster-hit families, support for local healthcare infrastructure, or initiatives for youth employment,” Pathania added.

Concluding, the Congress leader urged the BJP’s central leadership to approach Himachal Pradesh’s challenges with sincerity and to ensure that political tours are accompanied by tangible benefits for the people.

S Gopal Puri