Jairam Thakur Criticizes Sukhu Government for Blaming Centre Despite Ample Support

Mandi, March 3, 2025 – Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur strongly criticized the Sukhu government for repeatedly blaming the Central Government while receiving substantial financial assistance. Speaking at a seminar on the Union Budget 2025-26, organized by BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh in Mandi, he called the budget a “roadmap for a developed India.”

Thakur praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s rapid economic rise, stating that in ten years, India’s economy has climbed from 11th to 5th place globally. He highlighted India’s advancements in economic, scientific, and strategic sectors, asserting that the Modi government swiftly implements its budgetary promises.

Thakur accused the Sukhu government of misleading the public by claiming that the Centre is neglecting Himachal Pradesh. He cited figures proving otherwise:

• Under the UPA government (2004-2014), Himachal received ₹52,000 crore in grants.
• Under the Modi government, the state has received ₹1,41,000 crore, a 271% increase.
• This year’s railway budget allocation for Himachal is ₹2,716 crore, 22 times more than the last UPA budget.
• Sukhu government has already received ₹2,872 crore in interest-free loans in two years, surpassing the ₹1,983 crore received in five years under the BJP government.

Despite these figures, Thakur accused the Congress-led state government of falsely blaming the Centre instead of utilizing funds effectively.

Thakur addressed allegations that the state government is targeting temple funds for financial aid. He revealed that a letter from the Temple Commissioner and Secretary of the Language & Culture Department is already in the public domain, exposing the government’s intention to use temple funds.

He recalled Deputy CM’s Assembly statement that “temple funds cannot be touched,” yet now the government is actively seeking temple money to sustain state departments. He urged the government to “stop lying to the people.”

Thakur also warned the state government against ignoring Mandi’s development. He criticized the administration for diverting funds meant for Mandi University and pledged that when BJP returns to power, it will restore institutions and strengthen them.

He also questioned the ₹100 crore budget withdrawal for Shiv Dham, demanding an explanation from the Chief Minister.