In response to the recent political upheaval during the Rajya Sabha elections in Himachal Pradesh, the Congress high command has taken proactive measures to prevent any recurrence of such incidents. A six-member coordination committee has been formed to ensure effective communication and coordination between the state government and the party organization.
The committee comprises Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, state Congress president Pratibha Singh, Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri, Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil, former minister Kaul Singh Thakur, and sitting MLA Ram Lal Thakur. The primary objective of the committee is to bridge the gap between the state government and the party apparatus, addressing concerns raised by Pratibha Singh and others regarding coordination issues.
The formation of the coordination committee comes in the aftermath of the BJP’s unexpected victory in the Rajya Sabha elections, which was attributed to cross-voting by six BJP MLAs. Despite having a numerical advantage, the Congress candidate, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, was defeated. Subsequently, the BJP called for the resignation of the Sukhu government, citing a loss of mandate and trust.
However, the Sukhu government remained in power and successfully passed the state Budget despite challenges posed by the reduced strength of the Congress in the Assembly. Disqualification of rebel MLAs and suspension of BJP MLAs during the Budget Session further exacerbated the political tensions.
Amidst the crisis, Cabinet Minister Vikramaditya Singh tendered his resignation, expressing dissatisfaction with Sukhu’s leadership. Nevertheless, the Congress leadership intervened, averting a deeper crisis within the government.
The composition of the coordination committee reflects a delicate balance aimed at reconciling the factions within the Himachal Congress. Notably, the selections appear to address the interests of both Sukhu and Pratibha Singh factions, acknowledging the political dynamics within the state.
Sources indicate that the choices for the committee members aim to accommodate diverse political affiliations and ambitions, particularly with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The intricate political landscape in Himachal Pradesh, marked by factional rivalries and shifting allegiances, underscores the importance of effective coordination and unity within the Congress ranks.
As the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh navigates through internal challenges and external pressures, the establishment of the coordination committee signals a concerted effort to strengthen the party’s position and address grievances within its ranks.