Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a sharp attack on the BJP during a press conference held in Una on Sunday, terming the party “anti-Himachal.” He questioned why the BJP failed to stand with the state government before the Centre on critical issues like Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) and disaster relief.
The Chief Minister asked why BJP leaders did not accompany the state government to meet the Prime Minister when Himachal was fighting for its rightful dues. He alleged that during BJP’s tenure, the state was pushed into a debt of ₹76,633 crore, and around ₹5,000 crore was distributed as “freebies” during elections, weakening fiscal discipline.
Sukhu further claimed that the BJP-led government received nearly ₹60,000 crore more from the Centre in five years compared to the current government but failed to utilize the funds effectively. “Had those resources been used properly, Himachal would have been debt-free today,” he said.
Highlighting his government’s work, Sukhu said that in the last 40 months, several policy reforms have been implemented under the vision of “system transformation,” focusing on transparency, good governance, and public welfare. He also accused the BJP of trying to gain power through social media campaigns, adding that people of the state are now aware of the reality.The Chief Minister outlined key welfare measures, including ₹1,500 monthly assistance to women from one lakh poor families, up to 300 units of free electricity, and pensions for women above 59 years of age. He added that minimum support prices for wheat, maize, and turmeric have been increased to promote natural farming and boost farmers’ income.
On education, Sukhu stated that Himachal has improved from 21st to 5th position nationally in quality education. Government schools have adopted the CBSE pattern, opening new opportunities for students. Speaking on industrial growth, he described the Bulk Drug Park project in Una as a “game changer,” expected to generate over 10,000 jobs.
In the energy sector, he said efforts are being made to make Una a hub of solar energy, with a solar power plant already established in Pekhubela and more projects in the pipeline.
Referring to disasters in 2023 and 2025, Sukhu said the state government announced historic relief packages on its own, while BJP leaders failed to secure additional support from the Centre. He added that the state is still awaiting ₹1,500 crore in relief announced by the Prime Minister.
Concluding his remarks, Sukhu accused the BJP of internal factionalism and targeted Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, claiming the party is divided into multiple groups and that Thakur is under pressure to retain his position.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and several Congress leaders were also present at the press conference.