NEW DELHI: Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur has strongly criticized the Congress-led state government, accusing it of coercing temples under its control to contribute funds for the ‘Sukh Ashray’ scheme, a government welfare initiative.
Taking to social media platform X, former Chief Minister Thakur alleged that 36 major temples managed by the state had been asked to provide financial assistance for running the scheme. He further claimed that while the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government “opposes Sanatana Dharma and makes anti-Hindu statements,” it is now turning to temple funds to sustain its flagship program.
In a video message, Thakur accused district administrations of pressuring temple trusts to transfer money to the government treasury. He pointed to an official letter issued by a Himachal Pradesh government secretary directing deputy commissioners to collect funds from temple trusts and deposit them in the treasury to finance government schemes. “This is unprecedented and unacceptable,” he said.
Thakur emphasized that previous governments had only sought voluntary contributions from temples during natural disasters, but diverting temple funds for regular welfare programs was unheard of. “This is not just a request; they are actively following up and applying pressure. This must be opposed, and temple trusts should resist this move,” he asserted.
The Sukh Ashray Scheme & Government’s Request
The Sukh Ashray scheme aims to provide better opportunities for orphans, destitute women, and the elderly. In a letter dated January 29, the Art, Language, and Culture Department formally requested temple trusts to contribute to the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojna/Kosh and Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojna/Kosh as part of their charitable activities.
Jairam Thakur vowed to oppose the decision in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session starting February 10 and beyond. “We will fight this both inside and outside the assembly,” he said, reiterating the BJP’s stance against the move.
Congress Defends the Move
Responding to the allegations, Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Pratibha Singh defended the government’s decision, asserting that the Sukh Ashray scheme was designed to support the education and well-being of underprivileged children.
“Our government is running the Sukh Ashray scheme for a good cause—to help helpless children, support their education, and provide them a better life,” Singh told ANI.
Singh further clarified that the request was not limited to temples, but extended to all organizations and individuals willing to contribute.
“It is not just about temples. We are encouraging everyone who can to donate for the welfare of children. Other organizations and donors should also come forward and contribute to this noble cause,” she said.
As the debate intensifies, the issue is expected to be a major flashpoint in the upcoming assembly session, with both BJP and Congress standing firm on their positions.
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