Himachal Deserves Its Share of Water, Says CM Sukhu; Reiterates Transparent Governance and Development Commitments.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has strongly asserted Himachal Pradesh’s rightful claim over its water resources, highlighting the need for equitable benefit-sharing from the state’s natural assets. “Water is Himachal’s most valuable natural resource,” he said, while inaugurating a newly constructed three-storey parking facility at Sector 5 in New Shimla. “We generate 12,000 MW of electricity, but what has the state truly gained from this? While Punjab and Haryana fight over water that originates from Himachal, we must ask—what are we getting in return?”
Pointing to Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (SJVNL)’s growth into a Rs. 6,700 crore enterprise, the Chief Minister emphasized that the fruits of Himachal’s resources must be returned to its people. He called for a fair and just arrangement that acknowledges the state’s contribution to the region’s water and power needs.
The CM inaugurated the Rs. 18 crore parking facility that can accommodate over 50 vehicles, addressing a longstanding demand of local residents. He also announced an additional Rs. 50 lakh for a new parking structure, a community center, and a Primary Health Centre in New Shimla. Recalling his personal connection to the area, he shared memories of his childhood and early political journey. “I’ve walked these trails before Sector 5 became what it is today. My roots are here,” he remarked.
No Corruption Allegations in Two and a Half Years
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister highlighted the financial challenges faced by his government upon taking office. “We inherited a debt burden of Rs. 75,000 crore and liabilities of Rs. 10,000 crore to be paid to government employees,” he said. “Despite this, we generated Rs. 2,500 crore in additional revenue through honest, transparent governance. In two and a half years, not a single corruption allegation has been made against us.”
He also outlined his government’s achievements: the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme for 1.36 lakh employees, provision of minimum support prices for milk, maize, and wheat under natural farming, and visible reforms in the education and healthcare sectors.
The CM also announced a Rs. 250 crore multi-purpose complex in Vikasnagar to house several government departments and resolve parking issues. He praised Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh for effectively addressing regional challenges.
Teachers’ FIRs are Baseless Rumours, Says Government
Meanwhile, a government spokesperson dismissed reports that FIRs were filed against 900 teachers associated with the Government Primary Teachers’ Association. “Only five office bearers have been named in FIRs for holding a protest without permission. These widespread rumours are baseless,” said the spokesperson.
The Chief Minister has directed Education Minister Rohit Thakur to hold discussions with the Association to resolve their grievances. The state government reaffirmed its commitment to open dialogue and fair resolution of issues affecting government employees.
Widespread Participation in New Shimla Event
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, HIMUDA Vice-Chairman Yashwant Chhajta, APMC Chairman Dev Anand Verma, local councillors, and other dignitaries.
Councillor R.R. Verma welcomed the Chief Minister and thanked him for addressing long-pending civic issues in the area. Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh lauded the CM’s vision for a “Green Energy State” and announced the upcoming construction of a modern library in New Shimla.
