Shimla, Dec 4,
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has accused the opposition BJP of deliberately hindering the progress of Himachal Pradesh by using political strategies and financial roadblocks. Speaking at a media meet on two years completition of State government, Agnihotri alleged that the BJP, is working against the interests of the hill state by curbing funds, influencing policies, and attempting to destabilize the Congress-led government.
“The BJP has tried every tactic to topple the government, including Operation Lotus, which failed miserably. Despite their efforts, we have maintained stability with 40 members in the House,” Agnihotri stated.
He further criticized the BJP for dividing itself into factions—original BJP members and a group he labeled as “BJP-C,” consisting of leaders who joined the party after leaving the Congress. According to him, these factions are at odds, weakening the opposition’s ability to function cohesively.
Agnihotri accused the BJP of failing to act as a responsible opposition and using its influence in Delhi to block developmental works. “They visit Delhi regularly, ensuring that funds for the state are blocked. Even disaster relief aid post-2023 was withheld, forcing us to rely on loans for recovery,” he said.
Highlighting financial grievances, the Deputy CM pointed out that critical grants such as GST compensation and external-aided project funding have been capped, while the state’s share from BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board) worth ₹5,000 crore remains pending. “The BJP has even curtailed the revenue deficit grant and refused disaster relief, leaving the state to fend for itself,” Agnihotri said.
He accused the BJP of hypocrisy for filing petitions against the appointment of Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS), despite appointing them during its own regime. The BJP-led Centre’s decision to stop the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government also came under fire, with Agnihotri accusing the BJP of halting a ₹2,000 crore to Himachal after OPS was reintroduced in the state.
Despite financial challenges, the Congress government, he claimed, is delivering on its promises. Projects such as the ₹1,750 crore Shimla ropeway project(1st in the country), the Kangra airport expansion worth ₹3,400 crore, e-buses, e-taxis with a 50% subsidy for youth, and solar initiatives are being prioritized. Agnihotri also highlighted the revamped Bulk Drug Park project, which has secured ₹1,000 crore each from the government and private investors, as an example of their proactive governance.
“We are not making noise because we want to showcase tangible results on the ground. The BJP, on the other hand, has focused solely on stalling our progress and spreading misinformation,” he said.
Agnihotri alleged that the BJP’s actions amount to financial sanctions on the state, a situation unprecedented in Himachal’s history. “Himachal Pradesh, a financially sensitive state, has never been targeted this way by any political party before,” he added.
On a positive note, he emphasized that the Congress government remains committed to making the state financially viable while fulfilling its developmental agenda. “We are proud of our central leadership, which focuses on achievements rather than abusing opponents,” Agnihotri remarked.
While concluding the Dy CM stated ‘OPS, Rs 1500 per month women pension, we stand by our gaurantees.” Adding even if opposition puts a thousand roadblocks we will ensure that progress does not get hindered and will complete its full 5 years term, claimed Agnihotri.
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