Shimla: BJP state president Dr Rajeev Bindal on Monday accused the Congress government of burdening the people of Himachal Pradesh with rising taxes and inflation, alleging that the state’s economy is being pushed into distress. Addressing a press conference, Bindal said that the Congress came to power in 2022 with big promises and guarantees but has instead imposed continuous financial burdens on the public. He pointed out that diesel tax has been increased from Rs 10.40 per litre to Rs 15.40 per litre, calling it a direct blow to citizens.
He said the impact of rising fuel prices is being felt across all sections of society, including farmers, horticulturists, labourers, traders, and consumers. According to him, the hike will lead to increased transportation costs, higher fares for buses, taxis, and trucks, a rise in agricultural and irrigation expenses, costlier transportation of horticulture produce, and a negative impact on tourism.
Bindal alleged that over the past 40 months, the state government has collected around Rs 4,000 crore from the public through taxes and is now planning to extract another Rs 2,000 crore through the latest hike. He accused the government of increasing prices of electricity, water, ration, stamp duty, and cement, thereby making life difficult for the common man.
He further claimed that stamp duty has been increased by up to 500 percent, cement prices have risen by up to Rs 100 per bag, and ration costs have also gone up significantly.
Criticising the state budget, Bindal said it is merely a “paper exercise” lacking vision. He noted that, for the first time, the budget has been reduced to Rs 54,928 crore, which he said would hamper development. He also alleged that the budget largely replicates central government schemes without presenting any independent policy direction.
He added that the imposition of entry tax in 28 border areas has put additional pressure on residents, traders, and tourists, potentially affecting both tourism and business. He warned that higher fuel prices compared to neighbouring states could encourage smuggling and illegal activities, leading to law and order challenges.
Bindal concluded that the budget is anti-people and unjust to all sections, including the poor, farmers, employees, unemployed youth, and women. He said the BJP would raise its voice against these decisions both on the streets and in the legislature.