Tensions Rise in Himachal Assembly Over MLA Fund Release
The second day of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha’s Budget session saw heated exchanges as the Opposition accused the government of unfairly withholding the MLA Area Development Fund. The confrontation prompted Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to step in and promise a review.
Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur raised the issue after Question Hour, claiming that despite official communication, only two installments of the fund had reached him. He alleged that ruling party MLAs were receiving their share while Opposition members were being sidelined. “Budget announcements must be honoured. There should be no discrimination,” he said, acknowledging the state’s financial stress but insisting that fiscal challenges could not justify selective cuts.
Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania termed the matter significant and asked the Chief Minister to clarify. Responding later, Sukhu assured the House that he would discuss the issue with Thakur and reconsider any reduction in allocations. He emphasized that the matter should not be politicized, remarking that it would not be resolved through “pamphlet distribution.”
Earlier, BJP MLA Randhir Sharma from Naina Devi also voiced concerns, pointing out delays in installments due in October and December. He argued that linking the delay to the Revenue Deficit Grant issue was misplaced, noting that MLAs across party lines were affected.
With the Chief Minister promising a review, the debate highlighted the growing unease among legislators over funds meant for local development — an issue that touches directly on their ability to deliver for their constituencies.
