Stormy Debates in Himachal Assembly: Himcare Scheme Under Fire, Vigilance probe ordered
The Himachal Pradesh Assembly turned into a battleground during the budget session as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accused the previous government of financial irregularities worth ₹1,100 crore under the Himcare scheme. His remarks sparked outrage from the Opposition, culminating in a dramatic walkout.
Sukhu revealed that the Vigilance Department is investigating the alleged discrepancies, including a ₹100 crore gap uncovered in a medical college audit. He criticized the state of healthcare infrastructure under the BJP’s tenure, pointing to shortages of doctors and equipment at Nerchowk Medical College. He further alleged that an MRI machine was deliberately installed outside the hospital to benefit private interests, forcing patients to pay hefty fees.
Opposition leader Jairam Thakur hit back, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated and demanding evidence. The heated exchange disrupted proceedings until the Opposition staged a walkout, leaving Sukhu to intensify his attack. He accused the previous regime of weakening the state’s finances through mismanagement and populist measures.
Highlighting gaps in the Himcare scheme, Sukhu claimed that while ₹442 crore was spent earlier, treatment worth only ₹370 crore was delivered. In contrast, his government facilitated treatment worth ₹960 crore in the past three years. He also ordered vigilance inquiries and financial audits of Rogi Kalyan Samitis, alleging misuse of funds.
Announcing a major policy shift, Sukhu said Himcare will be replaced with an insurance-based healthcare model, issuing health cards to streamline hospital access. He reassured the House that the state is not facing a financial crisis, noting that salaries and pensions are being paid on time, jobs are being created, and electricity subsidies will benefit over 2 million families. He also promised to fill vacant posts in medical colleges and the education sector by the next budget.
