Congress stirring Himachal-like financial crisis in Haryana with guarantees?

As Haryana heads toward elections, the Congress has unveiled seven guarantees, including ₹2,000 per month for women aged 18-60, 300 units of free electricity, and free medical treatment worth up to ₹25 lakh. These promises echo their strategies in Karnataka and Telangana, where similar guarantees helped secure electoral victories.

However, Congress’s track record raises concerns, with states like Himachal Pradesh grappling with severe financial crises after implementing these schemes. Public employees in Himachal are facing delayed salaries, and Chief Minister Sukhu has openly admitted the state's financial health is deteriorating, with a debt burden nearing ₹90,000 crore.

On the other hand, the BJP has presented a 20-point manifesto for Haryana, featuring ₹2,100 monthly for women under the Lado Lakshmi Yojana, LPG cylinders for ₹500, and scooters for rural female college students. While these promises also come with financial challenges, the BJP has successfully implemented similar programs in states like Madhya Pradesh and Odisha without triggering economic strain. Modi’s leadership, backed by well-planned welfare schemes, inspires trust, with previous initiatives like the Ladli Behna scheme gaining widespread popularity.

As the political battle intensifies, voters question the sustainability of Congress’ promises. Similar guarantees in Karnataka have already led to operational losses, with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) reporting ₹295 crore in losses due to free bus travel for women. Meanwhile, BJP's schemes have clear funding roadmaps, reinforcing the trust placed in their promises across various states.