Hiking Cement Prices Amid Disaster Is Inhuman: Jairam Thakur

Shimla, Jan 05, 2026: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur criticised the state government over the repeated hike in cement prices, calling it inhuman and insensitive at a time when Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the impact of natural disasters. He said thousands of people have been rendered homeless, while many others are struggling to rebuild partially damaged houses and cattle sheds.

Thakur alleged that instead of providing relief, the Congress government has increased the burden on disaster-affected families by allowing cement prices to rise and by imposing additional taxes, despite the Centre having reduced GST earlier to provide relief. He said such decisions worsen public hardship and reflect a lack of concern for rehabilitation, adding that the BJP will continue to oppose what it terms anti-people policies both on the streets and in the Assembly.