Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Criticises BJP for Walking Out of All-Party Meet on Revenue Deficit Grant

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accused the BJP of evading its stand on the proposed discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant and walking out of an all-party meeting convened to discuss the issue.

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday criticised the BJP for allegedly failing to clarify its stand on the proposed discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) and for walking out of an all-party meeting convened to deliberate on the matter.

Addressing mediapersons after the meeting, Sukhu described the possible withdrawal of RDG as a serious concern with long-term implications for the state’s economy. He said the meeting was called to formulate a united strategy to safeguard Himachal Pradesh’s financial interests, but alleged that BJP leaders neither clearly stated their position nor participated constructively.

‘Issue Beyond Party Lines’

Sukhu claimed the BJP attended the meeting under public pressure but exited midway. “Even if they believe the RDG withdrawal is unfair, they lack the courage to take a firm stand,” he said.

Referring to the 2023 natural disaster, the Chief Minister recalled that when the state government had passed a resolution seeking a special relief package from the Union Government, BJP members had also walked out of the House. “People are closely watching this anti-Himachal approach and will respond accordingly,” he remarked.

He noted that apart from the Congress, parties such as the CPI(M), AAP and BSP had expressed readiness to jointly meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for reinstatement of the RDG. Sukhu reiterated that the matter transcends party lines and requires collective political will.

Financial Context

Highlighting financial figures, Sukhu said the previous BJP government had received ₹54,000 crore as RDG and ₹16,000 crore as GST compensation during its tenure. In comparison, the present Congress government has so far received ₹17,000 crore under RDG.

Despite the disparity, he asserted that the state government is pursuing fiscal discipline and structural reforms aimed at achieving long-term financial self-reliance.

Other Leaders Join Criticism

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan and Congress national spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Rathore also criticised the BJP’s conduct. Former MLA Rakesh Singha called for consensus to address public hardships, while representatives from AAP and BSP stressed that given Himachal’s limited internal resources, continued financial assistance from the Centre remains crucial.

The BJP has yet to issue a detailed response to the Chief Minister’s allegations.

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