Congress Government’s Negligence Causes Auction Order of Himachal Bhawan: Anurag Thakur

Himachal Pradesh, November 19, 2024: Former Union Minister and Member of Parliament from Hamirpur, Anurag Singh Thakur, has expressed strong disapproval of the Congress-led state government’s handling of financial affairs, after the Himachal Pradesh High Court ordered the attachment of Himachal Bhawan in Delhi due to an unpaid ₹64 crore debt owed to Selek Hydro Power Company. Thakur deemed this as a glaring example of Congress’s administrative failure and a “black stain” on its governance.

In a statement, Thakur remarked that the government’s neglect and inefficiency have tarnished the reputation of Himachal Pradesh, as the High Court’s attachment order for Himachal Bhawan—symbolic of the state’s pride—has drawn widespread embarrassment. He said, “The Congress government’s indifference to public welfare in favor of benefiting close associates is causing deep damage. The attachment of Himachal Bhawan by the High Court illustrates the poor handling and mismanagement prevalent under this administration.”

Thakur further lambasted the ruling party, highlighting the state’s mounting debt under Congress’s leadership. He claimed that within two years, the government has burdened the state with over ₹96,500 crore in debt and expressed concern about what further assets might be compromised as a result of their mismanagement. “In just two years, the Congress government has managed to place Himachal in a fiscal crisis. Today, even the state’s pride—Himachal Bhawan—is at risk, yet the Congress party seems to be in ‘party mode’ without care,” Thakur added.

He also pointed out other instances reflecting the government’s inefficiency, such as talks of imposing tax on toilets, and an illogical probe into samosa pricing. “The directionless policies, severe economic mismanagement, and inability to fulfill promises have led to widespread disrepute for Himachal under Congress rule,” said Thakur. He warned that with an expected debt crossing ₹1 lakh crore by the end of this year, the state could face further economic peril.

Thakur criticized the government’s policies for burdening common citizens and industries alike, raising electricity tariffs twice and imposing environment and milk cess, which he claimed have triggered industrial flight from the state. He highlighted how financial strain has left employees and pensioners waiting for their dues, making a scathing remark that “the Congress hand is on the public’s throat, instead of offering relief.”

In closing, Thakur reiterated his demand for the government to take accountability for the current financial predicament and seek a constructive resolution for Himachal Bhawan’s attachment. He emphasized that such negligence and inefficiency are unacceptable to the people of Himachal Pradesh, urging the government to act responsibly.