CM Sukhu speaking in the House. Source: DPR
Tapovan (Dharamshala), December 22: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has made a bold statement regarding the state’s demand for ₹9,977 crores for Post Disaster Need Assessment (PDNA). He warned that if the central government fails to release the funds, the state will be forced to approach the Supreme Court. The Chief Minister made this remark while responding to the discussion on the disaster relief proposal under Rule 130 in the state assembly.
Sukhu emphasized that the state is not asking for charity but is demanding its rightful share of funds. He stated that the state has suffered one of the most severe disasters in its history, with hundreds of lives lost and substantial damages. The central team had assessed direct damages at ₹9,977 crores, and additional indirect losses are estimated to exceed ₹12,000 crores. Sukhu reiterated that the funds were assessed and due to the state over the past year, but despite repeated requests, the Centre has not responded positively.
The Chief Minister also pointed out the disparity in the financial support provided by the Centre in the past. Under the leadership of former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, Himachal had received ₹11,431 crores in the first year, followed by ₹10,249 crores and ₹8,058 crores in the subsequent years. In comparison, for the fiscal year 2024-25, only ₹6,258 crores are being allocated, and the following year’s allocation is expected to decrease to ₹3,257 crores, a reduction of ₹8,000 crores. Sukhu criticized the BJP for failing to stand in solidarity with the people of Himachal, claiming their actions were irresponsible.
Regarding a proposal on vehicle flags for MLAs, raised by MLA Rakesh Jamwal during the zero hour, the Chief Minister assured that it will be addressed in the upcoming budget session. He clarified that the previous BJP government had approved flags for MLAs’ vehicles, and this matter would be reviewed in the next legislative session.
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