BJP Alleges Economic Mismanagement, Political Vendetta by Himachal Government

SHIMLA, Aug. 6: Senior BJP spokesperson Rajinder Rana on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the Congress government, accusing it of economic mismanagement, political favoritism, and misuse of state machinery to target the Opposition.

Addressing a press conference in Shimla, Rana alleged that the Chief Minister had earned five “titles” during his tenure, including being the “richest Chief Minister in North India,” the “highest borrower” in the state’s history, the “biggest liar,” a leader who had given “free rein to associates for loot,” and a Chief Minister driven by “political vendetta.”

Rana claimed that the state was being run not by an elected government but by a “syndicate” of close associates who allegedly influence administrative appointments and key policy decisions despite holding no constitutional or official positions. He further alleged that taxpayers’ money was being spent on a large number of political appointments, including OSDs and advisers, instead of development.

Questioning the government’s financial management, the BJP leader alleged that despite borrowing more than ₹1.44 lakh crore, infrastructure and public services had deteriorated. He claimed that roads remained in poor condition, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) was facing a financial crisis, employees and pensioners were struggling, and the government was preparing to privatise or lease revenue-generating public assets, including tourism properties.

Rana also accused the government of attempting to suppress Opposition leaders through politically motivated police cases. He said those allegedly misusing legal and administrative machinery for political purposes would be held accountable in the future.

Responding to allegations previously made against him, Rana said the government had failed to produce any evidence despite investigating his financial records and personal affairs, alleging that the accusations were politically motivated.

He asserted that the BJP remained united under its central and state leadership, while claiming that dissatisfaction within the Congress was growing. Referring to recent local body and panchayat elections, Rana said they were only a “trailer,” adding that the party expected a decisive mandate against the Congress in the 2027 Assembly elections.

He urged the Chief Minister to focus on issues such as unemployment, deteriorating infrastructure, the state’s financial condition, tourism, and employees’ concerns instead of targeting political opponents.

The Congress government had not issued an immediate response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.