Facing a significant financial crisis largely caused by a series of catastrophic landslides and flash floods over the past two years, the Himachal Pradesh government has proposed leveraging temple funds to support various welfare schemes. This unusual approach has sparked outrage among opposition parties, particularly the BJP, which described the move as “shocking.”
Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur expressed strong disapproval, stating, “No past government has ever used temple trust funds for budgetary schemes… using temple funds for regular government expenses is completely unacceptable.” The Social Justice and Empowerment Department issued a notification on January 29, requesting contributions from temple trusts specifically for two welfare programs: Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray and Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana, established in February 2023 and September 2024, respectively.
The notification indicated that temple trusts operating under the Himachal Pradesh Hindu Public Religious Institutions Charitable Endowment Act could contribute to these initiatives, emphasizing that any donations must first be approved by the respective temple trusts and comply with existing laws.
BJP Criticism of Fundraising Efforts
The BJP has been vocal in its criticism of the government’s outreach to temples. Thakur accused the ruling Congress party of hypocrisy, stating that while its leaders had previously made negative remarks about ‘sanatan dharma’, they were now seeking financial support from these very institutions. “The government has issued an order urging temple trusts to send all available funds as soon as possible. This is shocking and unfortunate,” he remarked.
Thakur suggested that if funds were essential during crises such as COVID-19 or natural disasters, they should have been directed to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for humanitarian aid, rather than to regular government expenses. “On one hand, Congress insults ‘sanatan dharma’ and its followers, while on the other, they want to use temple donations to fund their policies. This decision is bizarre and must be opposed by everyone, including temple committees and the general public,” he added.
Government’s Defense
In response, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu’s administration defended the initiative, with state unit chief Pratibha Singh clarifying that donations were sought not only from temples but from the public at large. “Our government is running the schemes for a good cause… for helpless children and to support their education and give them a better life,” she stated.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi also supported the fundraising efforts, questioning why seeking donations for welfare schemes would be considered inappropriate. He pointed out that the previous government, under Thakur, had similarly accepted funds from temples during the pandemic, referring to a Rs 25 lakh donation from Kali Bari Mandir to a relief fund in April 2020.
The Financial Struggles of Himachal Pradesh
The financial difficulties facing the Congress-led government became evident in August 2024 when Sukhu and his cabinet announced a two-month deferment of salaries and allowances for state officials. “This is just a small amount… but it is symbolic,” Sukhu explained, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility during tough times.
Himachal Pradesh has been severely affected by flash floods and landslides since August 2023, with recent incidents continuing to pose threats. Heavy rains in Kullu district recently caused landslides, showcasing the ongoing environmental challenges. A video captured a Maruti Alto car being swept away by a torrent of muddy water, highlighting the severity of the situation.
In August 2024 alone, over 30 lives were lost due to floods triggered by cloudbursts in Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts. Between late June and early August, more than 100 fatalities occurred in rain-related incidents, with total damages estimated at Rs 842 crore. The previous year, the estimated damage reached a staggering Rs 10,000 crore.
While the state has received financial assistance from the central government and other states like Assam, Bihar, and Delhi, officials claim that the support has been inadequate. Chief Minister Sukhu noted last year that the central government has not fully settled its Goods and Services Tax (GST) dues, which range from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 crore.
