Shimla, Jan. 3 -- Himachal Pradesh industries minister Harshwardhan Chauhan has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the Centre of "financially squeezing" the state, while alleging that successive reductions in central grants and compensation have severely impacted development of the state, already battling with destructions due to recent natural disasters.

The delay in release of funds hampering effective restoration, he added.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced Rs.1,500 crore for Himachal during a visit to Dharamshala following disaster damage. The 75 lakh people of Himachal are still waiting for that assistance. If it is released, it will bring major relief," said Chauhan, on Friday while hitting out at BJP...