“State Govt Presenting Misleading Data”: Jai Ram Thakur Slams Himachal Over RDG Row
Opposition Boycotts All-Party Meet; War of Words Intensifies Over Revenue Deficit Grant
Shimla: After boycotting the all-party meeting convened over the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) issue, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur launched a sharp attack on the Himachal Pradesh government, accusing it of presenting “misleading and politically motivated figures” during the session.
Thakur alleged that the state government is indulging in politics rather than addressing the core financial concerns. “During the presentation at the all-party meeting, distorted figures were shown to mislead participants. The Chief Minister is calling repeated meetings but appears confused about the actual course of action,” he said.
Finance Commission History Cited
Referring to past Finance Commissions, Thakur stated that the recommendation to phase out revenue deficit grants has existed since the 12th Finance Commission. He noted that during the 13th Finance Commission, Himachal Pradesh received ₹7,800 crore as RDG, while under the 14th Finance Commission, the state received over ₹40,000 crore during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi—even when the Congress was in power in Himachal.
He further added that the 15th Finance Commission had strongly advocated for ending the RDG, though grants were provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, albeit in a tapered-down manner.
According to Thakur, when his government appeared before the Finance Commission, it presented Himachal’s case firmly and logically. In contrast, he alleged that the current government, while appearing before the 16th Finance Commission, focused more on criticizing the Centre than effectively presenting the state’s financial position.
“Confusion Within the Government”
Thakur also pointed to what he described as contradictions within the government. “On one hand, officials claim the state’s financial condition is critical. On the other, the Chief Minister says there is no problem. Why this confusion?” he questioned.
Comparing central assistance under different regimes, he claimed that since Narendra Modi assumed office, Himachal Pradesh has received significantly higher grants and tax devolution from the Centre than during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
The political standoff over the RDG issue continues to escalate, with both the ruling party and the opposition trading allegations as the Assembly session approaches.
