BJP Criticizes Himachal CM for Rising Debt Levels

The BJP has sharply criticized Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, accusing him of leading the state into unprecedented debt levels. With claims that the Congress government has borrowed over ₹35,555 crore in just three years, BJP leaders are demanding accountability regarding the use of these funds. They question the lack of new industries, hospitals, and jobs created as a result of this borrowing. The party is calling for a detailed white paper on the state's finances to clarify how much debt has been incurred and what tangible benefits have been achieved. This ongoing debate raises critical concerns about the financial management and future economic stability of Himachal Pradesh.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 23, 2026, 17:09 IST

BJP's Concerns Over State Debt

Sudhanshu Sharma
Jassur

Rajesh Kaka, the district president of the BJP, has launched a fierce critique against Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, labeling him as the "most debt-laden CM in the history of Himachal Pradesh." He cited Assembly data indicating that the Congress-led government has accrued ₹35,555 crore in new loans over the past three financial years.

The BJP asserts that by January 31, 2026, the state's total debt had reached ₹1,01,863 crore, surpassing ₹1.10 lakh crore. Kaka raised concerns about the allocation of these funds, questioning: “What industries have been established, how many hospitals constructed, how many jobs generated, and what lasting assets have been created for the state?”

He further claimed that the borrowing trend has persisted into the current fiscal year, with ₹2,800 crore borrowed by July 2026 alone, which includes ₹900 crore in April, ₹500 crore in May, ₹400 crore in June, and ₹700 crore in July.

The BJP has accused the Congress administration of adopting a strategy of "borrow, spend, and pass the burden to future generations." While CM Sukhu defends the necessity of new loans to settle old debts from the previous administration, the opposition argues that this does not address the critical issue of enhancing revenue and minimizing reliance on loans.

Rajesh Kaka has called for greater transparency, demanding a white paper on the state's financial situation. This document should outline the total debt incurred since December 2022, the amounts of principal and interest repaid, the investments made in development and capital projects, and the permanent assets created.

In closing, the BJP posed a poignant question: “What has Himachal truly gained after accumulating such significant debt?”