CM condemns BJP for walking out of all-party meeting on RDG discontinuation

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu criticised the BJP leaders for walking out of an all-party meeting convened on Friday to discuss the potential impact of the revenue deficit grant (RDG) withdrawal, calling their stance "unclear and politically motivated".The meeting, chaired by the CM, focused on the 16th Finance Commission's recommendations, which propose discontinuation of the RDG — a constitutional mechanism under Article 275(1) designed to bridge the gap between state revenue and expenditure.Addressing the mediapersons, Sukhu described the proposed withdrawal of RDG as a serious concern that could negatively affect the state's economy. He said the BJP leaders remained in a dilemma, lacking both clarity and courage to take a firm stand on the RDG, and reiterated his commitment to fight for the state's constitutional rights.Sukhu expressed disappointment over the BJP's exit from the meeting, alleging their attendance was largely for political optics rather than protecting the state's interests. "It appears the BJP was not willing to stand for the rights of the state and attended the meeting only under public pressure," he said.The CM noted that other parties, including the CPI(M), AAP, and the BSP, showed willingness to approach the Prime Minister to demand reinstatement of the RDG.Highlighting fiscal disparities, Sukhu pointed out that while the previous BJP govt received Rs 54,000 crore as RDG and Rs 16,000 crore as goods and services tax (GST) compensation, the current govt received only Rs 17,000 crore so far.Despite this, he said, the present administration was steadily moving towards fiscal self-reliance. "Govts may come and go, but safeguarding the rights of the people must remain paramount," said Sukhu, asserting that the RDG issue transcended party politics.Former MLA and CPI(M) leader Rakesh Singha said everyone must understand the hardships faced by the people of the state and emphasised the need to arrive at a consensus to effectively safeguard their interests.AAP leader Dr Rajesh Chanana stressed the need for adequate financial assistance from the Centre, stating that Himachal has limited resources of its own. He also submitted a party resolution supporting the demand for reinstating RDG.The BSP representative said the state must collectively raise its voice for its rights.MSID:: 128305417 413 |