Bilaspur/Shimla: In a sharp and direct attack on the 'Congressized BJP", Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu marked two years of Congress' rule in the state, vowing to make Himachal self-reliant by 2027.

 Addressing a massive rally at Luhnu Ka Maidan in Bilaspur, Sukhu tore into the BJP for its alleged mismanagement and failure to deliver on its promises, especially in rural areas, while highlighting the Congress government's focus on economic growth and social upliftment.

Sukhu did not hold back, accusing the BJP-led Centre of treating Himachal with "stepmotherly" neglect.

He said the BJP  in Himachal has been divided into many factions and has been Congressized as six Congress MLAs has joined the BJP. 

He slammed the previous BJP regime for its corruption scandals, including police recruitment paper leaks, and for ignoring the pressing needs of the people.

"The BJP's leadership was asleep during critical times, doing nothing to combat corruption or address the real problems of the people," Sukhu said, drawing sharp contrasts between his government's proactive stance and the BJP's inaction.

The Chief Minister proudly presented his government's accomplishments, including increasing revenue by 2200 Crore incliding ₹600 crore through liquor contract auctions, a feat that had eluded the BJP during its tenure due to its corrupt policies.

He also announced several initiatives to support farmers and workers, including ₹60 additional wages for laborers and favorable rates for maize and wheat—₹30 and ₹40 per kg, respectively.

Sukhu emphasized that these initiatives were in stark contrast to the BJP’s neglect of the working class.

Another  major highlight of Sukhu’s speech was his government’s efforts to restore the Old Pension Scheme, benefiting over 1,36,000 employees.

He also drew attention to the ₹4,300 crore relief package for the victims of natural disasters, lamenting that the central government had failed to offer any special assistance even a year after the calamities struck.

"Building a house in Himachal is a struggle," Sukhu said, as he shared personal accounts of families who had lost everything in the devastating floods and landslides.

"The central government has not provided the help we promised, but we’re still working hard to bring the state’s economy back on track."

Striking a personal chord with the crowd, Sukhu recalled his humble beginnings as the son of a common man and an employee, acknowledging the challenges he faced growing up in an ordinary family. "I come from a very simple background, just like many of you," he said, his voice filled with emotion.

"But it’s the Congress party that recognized my 40 years of service and gave me the chance to lead this state.

This government is for the people, and every step we take is to ensure a better future for you all."

Sukhu reflected on his rise to Chief Minister against all odds, lauding how Congress had honored his dedication to the party.

"The Congress gave me the opportunity to serve, and now, together, we are building a Himachal where every citizen, especially those from humble backgrounds, can live with dignity and pride."

He credited the people of Himachal for their trust in the Congress party, especially during the 2024 crisis when six Congress MLAs defected to the BJP.

"It was the gods and the people who saved us," he remarked, highlighting the party’s ability to weather storms and stay connected with the people.

The CM’s emotional address resonated with the crowd, reinforcing his message of hope and resilience.

"By 2032, Himachal will be one of the most prosperous states in India," he declared, outlining a vision focused on the welfare of farmers, women, and marginalized communities.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders rallied behind Sukhu’s vision.

Rajeev Shukla, State Congress in-charge and MP, launched a fiery retort against the BJP, comparing the party’s tactics to the mythical Ravana.

"The BJP has misused central agencies, money, and power to topple governments, but the people of Himachal have taught them a lesson," Shukla asserted, calling out the BJP for its attempt to take credit for Congress' initiatives like MNREGA.

Shukla also criticized the central government for withholding disaster relief funds for Himachal, questioning the government's commitment to opposition-ruled states.

"When the state faced calamity, we reached out to the Prime Minister and Home Minister, but their response was pathetic," he added, urging the people of Himachal to fully support the Congress government and its vision for a progressive state.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri fiercely criticized the BJP's attempts to destabilize the Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh, labeling their efforts as futile.

He highlighted the internal rift within the BJP, divided into two factions—BJP-O (Original BJP) and BJP-C (former Congress members)—which he claimed were conspiring against the state government.

Agnihotri emphasized that the Congress government had delivered on its promises, including implementing the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and providing over 10,000 jobs in just two years, far surpassing the BJP's record during its tenure.

Agnihotri took a strong stand on the financial discrimination faced by Himachal Pradesh from the central government, accusing it of withholding critical funds and imposing financial restrictions.

He also pointed to the launch of significant development projects, such as e-buses, solar energy initiatives, and major infrastructure expansions, which were being executed despite these financial challenges.

PCC President Pratibha Singh echoed Shukla's sentiments, stating that the Congress government was working hand-in-hand with party workers to fulfill its promises. "The BJP has nothing to showcase from its last term, but we’re here to deliver results," Singh declared.

She got put off when she was interrupted  to cut her speech and made a passing remark saying that she knew how much to speak.  

As Congress celebrates two years of governance, the party’s resolve to stand firm against the opposition’s criticism is evident.

With bold promises and a vision for the future, Congress aims to not only counter the BJP's narratives but also chart a path towards a stronger, more self-reliant Himachal Pradesh- a resolve that will be tested in 2027, a deadline set by CM Sukhu to make Himachal self-reliant.

Before this Sukhu launched six new schemes here.

These initiatives reflect his commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable sections of society while promoting sustainable development.

Among the key schemes introduced were e-taxi services under the Rajiv Gandhi Start-up Swarojgar Yojna and the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna, which provides educational support to children of widows and disadvantaged families.

Additionally, the government rolled out the Himachal Pradesh Shiva Project and the Cow Dung Purchase Scheme.

Aiming to support the agricultural community, Sukhu also announced the disbursement of funds to farmers for maize purchases and launched five Ayush Mobile Vans. 

Sukhu honored freedom fighters Bhag Singh, Sahaj Ram, and Premi Devi, wife of the late Narottam Shastri, for their invaluable contributions to the nation.

He also unveiled Vikas Sankalan, a detailed publication by the Information and Public Relations Department.

The publication showcases the achievements and key initiatives undertaken by the government over the past two years, reflecting its commitment to development and progress.