Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 7 : In a sharp critique of the government led by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur condemned the Congress government's tax policies in Himachal Pradesh, remarking that the state seems to be taxing everything except air.
"Now, only air is left. The state government is not yet collecting tax on air," Thakur stated.
He further claimed that the Congress government is taking undue credit for developmental projects whose foundation stones were laid during the previous Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.
Thakur emphasised that much of the development in Himachal Pradesh is due to support from the central government, yet Chief Minister Sukhu has failed to acknowledge this.
"Despite the central government's cooperation, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu never recognises or thanks them for their role in these projects," Thakur said.
Jairam Thakur continued his criticism by questioning the experience and maturity of the current government.
"Has it been two years since Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu's government came to power? The state government has had two years of experience, but immaturity is still evident in its decisions," he remarked.
Thakur cited examples such as the imposition of new taxes. "After the toilet tax, the government is now preparing to introduce a sports tax. Players are being charged for using grounds for tournament preparation," he noted.
"On one hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is promoting athletes through Khelo India, while on the other, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh is busy taxing them," he added, accusing the state government of discouraging young athletes.