Himachal: Lotteries worse than drug menace, says Opposition as Congress defends move

Himachal Pradesh has announced the revival of state‑run lotteries, a move not seen in the hill state for almost three decades. The decision comes after a 27‑year hiatus, with the government hoping the new draws, including a Diwali bumper, will help bridge a fiscal shortfall.

The hiatus began in the early 1990s, when the previous lottery scheme was halted amid concerns about gambling addiction and social impact. Since then, the state has relied on other revenue sources, but recent budgetary pressures have renewed interest in a regulated lottery format.

Opposition leaders have seized on the announcement, arguing that the re‑introduction of lotteries could exacerbate existing social problems. They contend that the activity is “worse than a drug menace,” suggesting that easy access to gambling may lead to increased addiction, financial distress, and related crime.

The Congress party, which currently runs the state government, has defended the measure. Party officials say the lottery is a legitimate revenue generator that will not be promoted unchecked, and they stress that strict regulations will accompany the new draws. They also point out that the scheme is expected to create temporary employment and generate tax receipts that can be used for public services.

While the government has not detailed the exact scale of the lottery operation, it has indicated that participation will be limited to adults and that the proceeds will be earmarked for specific fiscal needs. The move has attracted attention from civic groups, who view it as a test of the state’s ability to balance revenue generation with responsible gambling policies.

As the debate unfolds, the coming months will reveal how the revived lotteries are received by the public and whether the anticipated financial benefits outweigh the concerns raised by the opposition. For now, the controversy underscores a broader tension in Himachal between fiscal necessity and social responsibility.

Source: Hindustan Times