Shimla

Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi on Monday alleged that the BJP’s stand on the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) issue reflects an attitude that is “against the interests of Himachal Pradesh.”

Speaking to reporters in Shimla after the conclusion of the recent three-day Budget session of the Vidhan Sabha, Negi said the debate over the RDG had exposed what he termed the opposition party’s “anti-Himachal” approach.

He said that any financial assistance from the Centre to the state should be welcomed, but criticised BJP leaders for remarks that, according to him, do not support the state’s fiscal concerns. In a sharp comment, Negi accused BJP leaders of lacking the right intent on the issue.

The controversy follows recommendations by the 16th Finance Commission to discontinue the Revenue Deficit Grant for 17 states, including Himachal Pradesh.

Negi said he recently returned from New Delhi after discussing the matter with the Congress leadership. He argued that under Article 275(1) of the Constitution, economically weaker states — particularly those with Scheduled Areas — are entitled to special central assistance.

According to the minister, Himachal Pradesh should continue receiving the RDG until the gap between its revenue receipts and expenditure is adequately bridged. He said the state government is examining all constitutional options, including protests and legal recourse, to challenge the proposed discontinuation.

Negi also targeted the previous BJP government in the state, alleging that it left behind loans amounting to ₹76,000 crore for the current Congress administration. He claimed that despite receiving Goods and Services Tax compensation, RDG allocations and additional grants during the COVID-19 period under what the BJP described as a “double engine government,” the previous regime continued to accumulate debt.

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The RDG issue is expected to remain a key point of contention between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP in the state.