BJP MLA Vipin Parmar Slams Himachal Government Over Development Delays
In a sharp critique of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, BJP MLA and former speaker Vipin Parmar has alleged that legislative priority meetings are being treated as a mere formality, with little emphasis on tangible development outcomes. Speaking to the media on Saturday, Parmar highlighted systemic issues plaguing the state's progress.
Funds for Critical Sectors Remain Pending for Years
Parmar pointed out that funds allocated for essential sectors such as roads, lift irrigation schemes, and drinking water projects have been pending for years. In many instances, even detailed project reports (DPRs) have not been prepared, stalling crucial infrastructure work. He emphasized that this lack of preparedness undermines the very purpose of development initiatives.
Legislative Priority Meetings Lack Substance
During a legislative priority meeting held on Saturday for MLAs from Shimla and Kangra districts, BJP legislators presented detailed development issues from their constituencies. Discussions were dominated by matters related to the public works department, jal shakti department, and pending DPRs. Parmar stated that such meetings often fail to translate into actionable results, with the government showing little commitment to follow-through.
Delays in Fund Disbursement Exacerbate Problems
The BJP leader further revealed that two instalments of the MLA local area development fund, which is released in four phases, have not been disbursed. Even approved instalments are reportedly not being released from the treasury. Similar delays affect the discretionary fund intended to support needy families, patients, daughters' marriages, and young sportspersons, compounding hardships at the grassroots level.
Region-Specific Concerns Raised by BJP MLAs
During the meeting, BJP MLAs raised a range of region-specific concerns, including:
- Education infrastructure and access
- Road connectivity improvements
- Illegal mining activities
Parmar alleged that several projects approved before 2022 remain incomplete due to a persistent lack of funding, highlighting a pattern of neglect that spans multiple years.
Call for Increased Funding and Accountability
Parmar demanded that if the government is serious about holding legislative priority meetings, the priority development fund allocated to MLAs should be increased to ensure timely completion of essential works at the regional level. He urged the administration to move beyond formalities and focus on delivering visible development that benefits the people of Himachal Pradesh.
The allegations come amid ongoing political tensions in the state, with the BJP positioning itself as a vocal critic of the Congress government's handling of development funds and project implementation. As these issues gain public attention, pressure mounts on the Sukhu-led administration to address the delays and ensure accountability in governance.
