Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan has strongly criticized the Congress party for its repeated claims that the central government is ignoring Himachal Pradesh. In a statement issued on June 23, 2026, Mahajan asserted that such allegations are baseless and politically motivated.
Mahajan's rebuttal to Congress allegations
Speaking to the media, Mahajan pointed out that the Narendra Modi-led central government has allocated significant funds and launched numerous development projects in the state. He said, "The Congress is spreading misinformation to mislead the people of Himachal. The facts speak for themselves – the Centre has sanctioned over Rs 10,000 crore for various infrastructure projects in the state in the last two years alone."
He highlighted key initiatives such as the expansion of national highways, railway projects, and the AIIMS in Bilaspur, which are being executed with central support. According to Mahajan, the Congress's accusations are a desperate attempt to divert attention from its own failures in the state.
Congress's claims of neglect
The Congress party has been vocal in alleging that the BJP-led central government has sidelined Himachal Pradesh, particularly after the state elected a Congress government in 2022. Congress leaders have cited delays in disaster relief funds and insufficient central assistance for the state's apple growers as evidence of neglect.
However, Mahajan countered these arguments by providing data on central fund releases. He stated, "In the 2025-26 fiscal year alone, the Centre released Rs 2,400 crore as the state's share of taxes and grants, which is a 15% increase over the previous year."
Political implications
The war of words between the BJP and Congress in Himachal Pradesh comes ahead of the 2027 state assembly elections. Mahajan's strong defense of the Centre's record is seen as an attempt to counter the Congress narrative and bolster the BJP's position in the state.
He also accused the Congress government in Himachal of failing to utilize central funds effectively. "The state government has left several central schemes underutilized. Instead of blaming the Centre, they should focus on implementation," Mahajan added.
