Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Orders Vigilance Probe into ₹1,100 Cr Himcare Scheme, Targets BJP Over Alleged Irregularities
In a politically charged session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made a bold announcement that has intensified thHimachal Pradesh Plans New Scrap Policy, Pushes Temple Tourism & Flags Jal Jeevan Funding Delays
In a politically charged session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made a bold announcement that has intensified thHimachal Pradesh Plans New Scrap Policy, Pushes Temple Tourism & Flags Jal Jeevan Funding Delays
e ongoing battle between the ruling Congress and the BJP.
Speaking after a marathon 14-hour Budget debate, Sukhu revealed that his government has ordered a Vigilance probe into the Himcare health scheme, alleging serious financial irregularities. According to preliminary findings, nearly 100 crore may have been misused out of the total 1,100 crore allocated under the scheme.
⚠️ Allegations of Misuse and Systemic Gaps
The Chief Minister pointed out that several private hospitals were allegedly empanelled under the scheme without proper transparency. Instead of strengthening government healthcare infrastructure, he claimed, the previous administration allowed arbitrary decisions that led to financial leakages.
“A Vigilance probe has been ordered as initial findings suggest a scam exceeding ₹100 crore,” Sukhu said, underlining that these concerns were among the reasons for excluding private hospitals from the scheme going forward.
🔥 Political Storm Inside the Assembly
The statement quickly triggered a sharp reaction from Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur. Heated exchanges followed, disrupting the proceedings and eventually leading to a walkout by BJP MLAs during the Chief Minister’s address.
The confrontation highlighted the growing political tension in the state, with both sides accusing each other of mismanagement and misleading the public.
🏥 Healthcare Reforms on the Agenda
Amid the controversy, Sukhu also outlined key reforms aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the state. These include:
- A complete audit of Rogi Kalyan Sabhas (RKS)
- Introduction of a new health insurance scheme to replace Himcare
- Procurement of four MRI machines
- Launch of robotic surgery services in medical colleges
These steps, according to the government, are part of a broader effort to modernize healthcare and restore public trust.
💰 Economic Defense and BJP Criticism
Defending his government’s financial strategy, Sukhu dismissed claims of a fiscal crisis. He assured that salaries and pensions are being paid on time, even though temporary salary deferments were introduced to stabilize the economy.
Taking a direct dig at the previous BJP government, he alleged that reckless spending and poor planning had pushed the state into heavy debt. He claimed that liabilities surged from 48,000 crore to 76,600 crore during BJP rule, comparing the situation to a “Sri Lanka-like crisis.”
Sukhu further alleged that nearly 1,000 institutions were opened before the 2022 elections without proper planning, adding pressure on the state’s finances.
⚡ Future Plans and Revenue Push
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister announced that a new industrial policy is on the way to boost revenue. He also indicated that the state expects to generate around ₹1,800 crore through land revenue reforms.
In a move aimed at balancing welfare and fiscal discipline, Sukhu confirmed that power subsidies will continue for all 23 lakh families across two electricity meters.
🗣️ BJP Hits Back
Reacting strongly, Jai Ram Thakur dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
He accused the Chief Minister of attempting to divert attention from his government’s shortcomings over the past three years. Defending the Himcare scheme, Thakur said it had significantly benefited economically weaker sections and improved access to healthcare.
He also alleged that pressure was being exerted on the Vigilance Department to target BJP leaders and fabricate cases.
“On one hand, the government promises better healthcare in public hospitals, and on the other, it talks about a 100 crore scam. These contradictions expose their failure,” Thakur said.
