HP ministers Harshwardhan Chauhan and Rajesh Dharmani attack ex-CM Jai Ram over RDG row

Shimla: Industries minister Harshwardhan Chauhan and technical education minister Rajesh Dharmani on Thursday launched a sharp attack on leader of opposition Jairam Thakur, alleging that the BJP's "anti-Himachal" stance on revenue deficit grant (RDG) was now exposed. The ministers, in a press statement, said BJP leaders who are opposing RDG today earlier strongly defended the grant before the 15th and 16th Finance Commissions, citing Himachal Pradesh's limited financial resources and difficult geographical conditions. They questioned why Thakur's position changed within months and asked him to clarify why the BJP now appeared to be acting against the state's interests. According to the Congress leaders, the BJP became so focused on opposing the present govt that it ignored the welfare of Himachal Pradesh. They also criticised BJP leaders for projecting central scheme funds as special financial assistance, asserting that such allocations are rightful entitlements of the state. The ministers pointed out that during Thakur's tenure as chief minister, the state received Rs 56,000 crore under RDG and Rs 14,000 crore as goods and services tax (GST) compensation without any objection from the BJP. They further alleged that the BJP opposed a recent legislative assembly resolution seeking restoration of RDG under Rule 102. Calling RDG a constitutional entitlement under Article 275(1), the ministers said the people of Himachal Pradesh deserve clarity on the BJP's stand. MSID:: 128561484 413 |