Shimla, 10 Feb
PRENEETA SHARMA
The Sukhu government in Himachal Pradesh is under fire for putting the financial burden on employees, pensioners and the public, while protecting and increasing the salaries of MLAs, ministers and political appointees during a severe economic crisis.
At a time when the government claims that they have no money to pay pending Dearness Allowance (DA), arrears and medical bills, it has gone ahead with salary hikes for legislators and board-corporation chairpersons. Critics say this clearly shows where the government’s priorities lie.
Government employees and pensioners have been repeatedly told to “wait” because of poor finances. DA instalments remain pending, arrears are unpaid and medical reimbursements are delayed. Pensioners say they are being pushed into hardship, while those in power continue to enjoy higher pay and perks.
The situation has worsened with the closure of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) — a key financial lifeline for Himachal. Even the state’s Principal Finance Secretary has warned of a catastrophic fiscal crisis, saying salaries, pensions and welfare schemes could be badly affected.
Despite this warning, there has been no cut in MLA salaries or political expenditure. Instead, the government is discussing austerity measures that hit employees and common people — not politicians.
Opposition leaders allege that the Sukhu government is using employees and pensioners as soft targets, while avoiding tough decisions that would affect those in power. They argue that if the state is truly broke, sacrifices should start from the top, not from retirees and salaried workers.
With protests growing and public anger rising, the message from the ground is clear: Himachal’s financial crisis is being managed on the backs of ordinary people — not its political leadership.
