BJP leader and MLA Randhir Sharma strongly criticized the budget presented by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, calling it a political speech rather than a serious financial roadmap for the state.
Sharma alleged that instead of outlining development priorities and economic direction, the Chief Minister used the budget speech to criticize the Central government, the previous BJP administration, and the opposition.
‘Budget Focused on Politics, Not Facts’
According to Sharma, the Chief Minister relied more on political allegations than factual data and financial analysis, indicating what he described as a “BJP phobia” within the government. He stated that a budget should define the economic future of the state, but this document lacked a clear vision.
Revenue Deficit Grant Debate
The BJP MLA also addressed the issue of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG), claiming that the Congress government was politicizing the matter. He clarified that RDG was never a constitutional right but a temporary arrangement based on Finance Commission recommendations and its discontinuation was already predetermined.
He accused the government of misleading the public regarding the issue.
Budget Figures Raise Economic Concerns
Citing budget data, Sharma said the financial condition of the state appears to be deteriorating.
- Total budget size stands at ₹54,928 crore, ₹3,586 crore less than last year.
- Revenue receipts are expected to decline from ₹44,537 crore to ₹40,361 crore.
- Committed liabilities such as salaries, pensions, interest payments, and loan repayments have reached nearly 80% of the budget.
He questioned how development projects could progress when only 20% of funds remain available for growth initiatives.
Rising Debt and Economic Pressure
Sharma further claimed that despite increased taxes and cess, revenue collection has not improved as expected. High prices and taxes, he said, are pushing consumers to shop in neighboring states, negatively affecting Himachal’s economy.
He also alleged that the current government has taken record levels of loans, with total state debt exceeding ₹1 lakh crore — a sign of an emerging financial crisis.
Lack of Investment and Development Plans
The BJP leader argued that the budget lacks concrete plans to attract investment, establish industries, or increase the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Rising electricity tariffs and lack of industrial incentives, he said, are discouraging investors.
He termed several budget announcements as “mere slogans,” stating that earlier promises — including making Himachal a green energy state, developing Kangra as a tourism capital, establishing de-addiction centers, and creating employment opportunities — remain incomplete.
Questions Over Welfare Schemes
Sharma also raised concerns over welfare schemes such as 300 units of free electricity and ₹1,500 financial assistance, claiming there is insufficient clarity about their implementation and actual benefits.
Final Remarks
Concluding his remarks, Sharma described the budget as “directionless, misleading, and economically weak,” warning that without policy corrections, the state could face serious financial consequences in the future.
