Nadda slams Sukhu Govt over assault on NHAI official, Poor fund utilisation
Shimla, July 5,
Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda launched a sharp attack on the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government over the recent assault on a National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) manager allegedly by state Cabinet Minister Anirudh Singh, calling the incident a “blot on the culture of Devbhoomi” and a reflection of collapsing governance.
Speaking to reporters in Bilaspur after reviewing central development projects, Nadda questioned the law-and-order situation in the state, remarking, “What can be expected from a government where the protector becomes the predator? Those meant to uphold the law are now breaking it.”
The alleged assault occurred in Shimla five days ago, sending shockwaves across administrative and political circles. While the police have yet to register a case against the minister, the incident has triggered widespread criticism from opposition leaders and public works bodies.
Nadda linked the episode to a broader pattern of governance failure in Himachal, accusing the Sukhu government of gross underutilization of central funds. He cited that only 21 per cent of the allocated budget under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Yojana (2020–2025) has been spent, and merely 24 p c of the 15th Finance Commission’s allocation for the health sector has been utilised.
“The state could not keep blaming the Centre when it is failing to spend the funds already sanctioned,” he said.
The Union Minister said he would write to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on several pending issues, including delays caused by annual State Pollution Control Board approvals affecting NHAI work and forest clearance hurdles for the strategically important Samdo-Kaza road, which was cleared by the Centre in 2024 but awaits state nod.
Nadda’s remarks come amid the execution of 25 NH projects worth Rs 2,592 crore in Himachal, covering 785 km. He warned that political interference and administrative delays are derailing progress on vital infrastructure.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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