Bindal slams govt over tax hikes, public hardship

State BJP chief Dr Rajeev Bindal launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led state government during a series of meetings with party workers across Sirmaur district. He alleged that in the past over two years, the Sukhu government has inflicted severe damage on Himachal Pradesh through relentless taxation and anti-people decisions.

Dr Bindal claimed that the government imposed taxes on nearly every section of society, extracting nearly Rs 4,000 crore from the public just through a Rs 7.50/litre tax on diesel. He also criticised the rollback of 125 units of free electricity per household, citing a sharp increase in power tariffs due to multiple added taxes. “The electricity board is now shocking the people financially,” he remarked.

He further said rural households, which earlier received free water, are now being taxed, and urban water rates have been increased by up to 500 per cent. In the public distribution system, the price of flour has risen by Rs 3, rice by Rs 4.50, and mustard oil by over Rs 50, he added, terming it “a blow to the poor man’s pocket”.

Dr Bindal also pointed to sharp hikes in court fees, stamp duty and registry charges, some increased by up to 500 per cent. He accused the government of shutting down HRTC bus routes in remote areas, making travel costly and difficult for the rural population, especially during health emergencies.

Highlighting the suspension of bus fare subsidies for women and increased household item taxes, he said the Congress has betrayed public trust. He also alleged the closure of schools, colleges and health institutions under the guise of financial constraints, while eliminating 1.5 lakh government posts—calling it a betrayal of the youth and anti-development governance.

Himachal Tribune