Shanta Kumar Criticizes CM Sukhu: Rs 300 Crore Approved for Dehra, Yet CU’s Dharamshala Campus Denied Rs 30 Crore
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shanta Kumar has raised concerns over the state’s development priorities, pointing out a glaring inconsistency in the allocation of funds. He criticized the government for approving a substantial ₹300 crore for projects in Dehra, while it has yet to approve a modest ₹30 crore for the long-awaited Dharamshala campus of the Central University. Kumar’s remarks underscore his frustration with the government’s approach to key infrastructure projects.
Shanta Kumar offered a mixed reaction in his statement, acknowledging the efforts of Chief Minister Sukhu and Dehra MLA Kamlesh Thakur for launching ₹300 crore worth of projects in Dehra within such a short span. However, he expressed frustration over the government’s neglect of Dharamshala’s progress. “The Chief Minister represents both Dehra and Dharamshala,” Kumar remarked, pointing out the irony that while the Dehra campus of the Central University is moving forward, Dharamshala’s campus has been stalled for over a decade due to the state’s failure to release a mere ₹30 crore.
Unfulfilled Promises for Dharamshala
Shanta Kumar brought attention to the ongoing delay in the construction of the Central University campus in Dharamshala, which has been stuck for over 12 years. He noted that ₹400 crore allocated by the central government remains idle because the state has failed to contribute the required ₹30 crore. While the Dehra campus has made considerable progress due to state funding, Dharamshala’s project remains dormant. “The people of Kangra are being deprived of their due development,” Kumar said, condemning the government’s neglect of the region.
Shanta Kumar further disclosed that the Chief Minister had previously promised to allocate ₹30 crore for the Dharamshala campus once the state’s financial condition stabilized. However, with ₹300 crore already being directed towards projects in Dehra, Kumar raised concerns over the government’s priorities. “If ₹300 crore can be allocated to Dehra, why can’t the same amount be provided for Dharamshala?” he questioned, expressing frustration over the continued neglect of the Dharamshala campus despite the availability of funds.
Shanta Kumar voiced his disappointment over the apparent indifference of Kangra’s residents to the ongoing neglect of their region. “Why are the people of Dharamshala and Kangra passively accepting this injustice?” he questioned. He called on the state government to act swiftly, urging them to release the necessary funds and start the construction of the Dharamshala campus without any more delays.
A Long-Standing Controversy
The Central University project in Himachal Pradesh has been at the center of political contention for over a decade. Approved in 2010, the initiative has faced numerous setbacks, largely due to disagreements over the campus location and inconsistent funding. While Dehra has benefitted from significant investments, Dharamshala, a major city in Kangra district, continues to be overlooked.
Shanta Kumar’s recent statements have reignited this longstanding issue, shining a light on the state government’s unequal approach to development. As attention turns back to the stalled Dharamshala campus, it remains uncertain when—or if—the project will progress, leaving a stark contrast between the development seen in Dehra and the neglect of Dharamshala.
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