Himachal Pradesh News
Ex-CM Prem Kumar Dhumal urges Himachal govt to curb ‘wasteful’ spending amid fiscal stress
Former Himachal CM Prem Kumar Dhumal asks the state government to impose strict fiscal discipline, cut wasteful spending and unnecessary official luxuries as the state faces mounting financial challenges after RDG withdrawal.
Former Himachal CM Prem Kumar Dhumal asks the state government to impose strict fiscal discipline, cut wasteful spending and unnecessary official luxuries as the state faces mounting financial challenges after RDG withdrawal.
Shimla: Senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal on Monday called on the Himachal Pradesh government to enforce strict fiscal discipline and rein in “wasteful expenditure” if the state’s financial situation is indeed as serious as being projected.
Expressing concern over the prevailing fiscal stress, Dhumal said the government must immediately curb unnecessary travel, official luxuries and avoidable administrative expenses.
“The phased withdrawal of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) was known well in advance and clearly mentioned in the Finance Commission’s recommendations,” he said in a statement.
Questions spending priorities
Taking a swipe at the Congress government, Dhumal alleged that despite speaking of financial hardship, the state continues to appoint a large number of chairpersons, advisers and office-bearers, increasing the burden on the exchequer.
“Spending on new vehicles, extra staff and official facilities contradicts the very principles of financial discipline,” he asserted.
‘Lead by example’
Recalling his tenure as Chief Minister, Dhumal said his government had adopted strict austerity measures during difficult financial periods.
“During challenging times, we controlled discretionary expenditure, curtailed unnecessary travel and official luxuries, and ensured that even the highest offices led by personal example,” he said.
He added that the discontinuation of the RDG after March 31 was not sudden and portraying it as an unexpected development was misleading.
Calls for decisive action
Dhumal maintained that the current fiscal stress was the result of long-anticipated challenges, not a sudden crisis, and accused the government of failing to prepare adequately.
“Instead of creating confusion or indulging in blame games, the government should introspect and explain its lack of preparedness,” he said.
He further cautioned that repeated public statements about an “empty treasury” could weaken public confidence and investor sentiment.
“What is needed is decisive action — a comprehensive review of expenditure, clear prioritisation and stronger financial management,” he added.\
