Himachal Pradesh's Leader of Opposition, Jairam Thakur, criticised the Congress government for allegedly pressuring temples under its control to contribute funds to the 'Sukh Ashray' welfare scheme.

In a post on social media platform X, former Chief Minister Thakur claimed that 36 major temples under state management had been asked to contribute financially to support the scheme. He accused the Sukhu-led government of "opposing Sanatana Dharma and making anti-Hindu statements" while now relying on temple funds to sustain its flagship program.

In the footage, Thakur further alleged that district administrations were pressuring temple trusts to transfer money to the government treasury. “A secretary in the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a letter to deputy commissioners, directing them to collect funds from temple trusts and deposit them in the treasury to finance government schemes. This is unprecedented and unacceptable,” he stated.

Thakur stated that while past governments had only requested contributions from temples during natural disasters, diverting these funds for routine welfare programs was something never done before. “They are not just requesting funds; they are actively following up and applying pressure. This decision must be opposed. Temple trusts and committees should resist this move,” he insisted.

The Sukh Ashray scheme is designed to support orphans, single and destitute women, and older people by providing them better opportunities. In a letter of January 29, the Art, Language, and Culture Department officially urged temple trusts to donate to the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojna/Kosh and Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojna/Kosh as part of their charitable efforts.

Jairam Thakur pledged to firmly resist the decision during the Vidhan Sabha session on February 10 and the following days. Emphasising the BJP’s opposition to the move, he stated, “We will fight this both inside and outside the assembly.”

Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Pratibha Singh addressed allegations made by Jairam Thakur about the state government seeking temple funds to finance the Sukh Ashray scheme. She explained that the scheme aims to support the education of underprivileged children and improve their lives. Singh emphasised that the initiative serves a noble purpose.

In an interview with ANI, Singh emphasised the scheme's positive purpose, saying, "Our government is running the Sukh-Aashray scheme for a good cause. This scheme was launched for the helpless children, to support their education and give them a better life..."

She added that the funds were not only being used for the temple’s expenses but that the government had urged everyone to contribute towards the welfare of children.

"It is not only about temples. We are calling everyone who can to come and donate an amount for the welfare of the children. Organisations other than temples should also come forward and contribute to the good cause..." she added.