In a startling turn of events within Himachal Pradesh, the Congress found itself grappling with a rebellion, prompting the deployment of troubleshooters on Wednesday. This move aimed to address the crisis in the hilly state and safeguard the esteemed party’s sole government in the northern region of India.
Insiders within the party reveal ongoing back-channel efforts to sway the six dissenting MLAs. These lawmakers have communicated their dissatisfaction to the high command, citing concerns with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s operational style, while expressing no opposition to the Congress as a whole.
Prior to the intervention of AICC observers, former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shiv Kumar, local leaders have initiated discussions with the dissidents. Following their defiance in the Rajya Sabha polls by voting against the Congress nominee Abhishek Manu Singhvi, the rebel MLAs relocated to Panchkula, near Shimla. Although the Congress boasts 40 MLAs, six breached party discipline, supporting BJP nominee Harsha Mahajan, who secured victory in a tied vote.
“Around afternoon, central observers will engage with the rebels, with ongoing communication by local leaders. Given the ongoing Assembly session, resolution efforts may only take effect once the session concludes in the evening,” remarked a senior AICC functionary involved in the crisis management.
Expressing optimism, AICC secretary Chetan Chauhan conveyed, “I believe the grievances of the rebel MLAs can be redressed by the party, bringing the situation under control. However, I opine that airing concerns within party platforms, rather than precipitating a crisis, would have been a more constructive approach if they had issues with the Chief Minister.”
Internal strife within the Himachal Pradesh unit emerged shortly after the party’s victory in the 2022 Assembly elections, with multiple contenders vying for the Chief Minister’s position, including Sukhu, state unit chief Pratibha Singh, and senior leader Mukesh Agnihotri.
“The same internal strife has resurfaced now. Vikramaditya Singh, son of Pratibha Singh and state minister, openly opposed the Chief Minister after resigning. Despite Sukhu’s effective governance and fulfillment of the party’s electoral promises, these lawmakers aligned with the BJP initially, now advocating for Sukhu’s removal,” explained a senior AICC functionary.
Vikramaditya, before stepping down, conveyed to the high command his reluctance to collaborate with Sukhu. Chauhan emphasized, “Our primary objective is to preserve the government. If we concede to the rebels’ demands now, they may present new demands later. Removal of the Chief Minister, if necessary, must be with Sukhu’s consent. The BJP is once again employing its subversive tactics to overthrow a duly elected government.”
“We aim to safeguard the government. Succumbing to rebels’ demands sets a dangerous precedent. The Chief Minister’s appointment involved thorough consultations, and the high command does not yield to blackmail. A conclusive decision awaits the observer’s report,” affirmed a senior AICC functionary.