Following the Rajya Sabha elections in Himachal, the Congress party leadership dispatched DK Shivakumar, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, and Bhupesh Baghel as observers to resolve the burgeoning crisis. Their meetings with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu, his cabinet, Congress legislators and party president Pratibha Singh, alongside her son Vikramaditya Singh, led to an understanding of the turmoil and subsequent reports. Pratibha Singh shares details regarding the ongoing situation within Congress in Himachal in a special talk with Aaj Tak.
Have all issues been settled post the observers' meeting?
Replying to this question, Pratibha Singh stated, 'Now, it is for the high command to make decisions. We had Rajya Sabha elections in Himachal recently. Despite having our government, we were unsuccessful. It was a moment of deep sorrow, and led to the current crisis. We discussed this crisis today with the high command - with Sonia Ji, Priyanka Ji, and Kharge Ji - who were already informed about the situation.'
She further stated that the high command had sent Bhupesh Baghel and Bhupinder Singh Hooda along with DK Shivakumar to resolve the issues. 'We had a comprehensive discussion this evening with all of them. We briefed them on the reasons that led to these circumstances. They took cognizance of our issues. We also debated how to unite and improve performance in upcoming elections, and discussed strategies to strengthen the party.'
Regarding Vikramaditya Singh's sudden resignation from the Sukhu Cabinet,
Pratibha Singh attested that while he was assigned two important portfolios, the lack of freedom to perform his duties unhindered led to disappointment and hurt, leading to his resignation. She highlighted that promises made to the youth about representation in government went unfulfilled, resulting in his decision to step down. 'One of the reasons is that our youth are still on hunger strike, and their voices are not being heard.'
Highlighting other issues, she added, 'The most pressing matter was the demand for a site to erect a statue of Virbhadra Singh on Ridge Ground. Despite the proposal's approval by Shimla Municipal Corporation and legislators, the request was stalled. The lack of action has hurt sentiments across Himachal. Vikramaditya resigned from the ministry on these grounds.'
Are Vikramaditya and Pratibha Singh ready to work in the Sukkhu-led government?
To this, she responded that decisions are yet to be made. She questioned the rapid changes post-elections, highlighting that Virbhadra Singh's legacy had been a rallying point for the party's success, yet now appears neglected. 'Changing sides so quickly after utilizing someone's legacy is hurtful. Why isn't his statue being erected, despite over 60 years dedicated to the Congress party?'
Addressing the issue of cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections benefitting BJP and rifts within Congress Himachal, Pratibha Singh indicated anticipations of these issues. 'We repeatedly brought it to the Chief Minister's attention to address the underlying problems and listen to the people's grievances. Ignoring these concerns led to the current predicament.'
Does Pratibha Singh see herself as the future Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh?
Dismissing this notion, she asserted that their primary objective is to serve the people, not chase positions. She denied any close links with the BJP or Punjab's former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.
Singh explained the visit of Vikramaditya Singh to the Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, affirming it was influenced by his father's contributions to the temple and respect for his values. 'It's related to my father's sentiments and faith.'
Does Pratibha Singh's ideology align closer to PM Modi and BJP?
She dodged the question, suggesting uncertainty about the future. 'What lies ahead is known only to God.'
On whether Congress errs in not making her Chief Minister, she brushed aside the thought, focusing on working together for Himachal's progress. 'Life is unpredictable; we must cherish each day,' she concluded.
