Congress in Himachal Pradesh: The Enduring Legacy of Virbhadra Singh

As Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu marks over two years in office, the Congress party in Himachal Pradesh remains heavily influenced by the legacy of the late Virbhadra Singh. Despite his passing, Virbhadra's image and name are invoked frequently as the party grapples with public dissatisfaction and prepares for the 2027 Assembly elections. His family continues to play a vital role in maintaining his legacy, while even opposition leaders acknowledge his significant impact. This article delves into the enduring relevance of Virbhadra Singh in the current political landscape of Himachal Pradesh.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2025, 16:35 IST

The Influence of Virbhadra Singh on Congress

Sunil Chadha

Shimla:
As Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu completes over two years in office, the Congress party in Himachal Pradesh continues to rely heavily on the legacy of the late Virbhadra Singh, who served as Chief Minister six times. Even after his passing, Virbhadra remains a significant figure for the party, whose influence has yet to be matched or surpassed by current leaders.

With increasing public discontent regarding unmet promises, largely due to the state's financial struggles, the Congress appears to be leaning once more on the legacy of its most prominent leader as it prepares for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections.

The Unfading Shadow of a Leader

From 1983 until 2017, Virbhadra Singh was the face of Congress in Himachal Pradesh whenever the party was in power. He is often credited as the architect of modern Himachal, with a legacy that many believe surpasses that of the state's founder, Yashwant Singh Parmar.

During his lifetime, no other Congress figure, including Sukh Ram, Kaul Singh, or Vidya Stokes, could rival his public appeal or challenge his dominance over the Chief Minister's position. Even CM Sukhu was unable to secure a Cabinet position while Virbhadra was alive.

Following Virbhadra's death in 2021, the Congress party invoked his name and image extensively during the 2022 state elections and continues to do so as Sukhu's popularity stagnates. The saying, “Legends never die,” seems to serve as a political strategy for the Himachal Pradesh Congress.

The Family's Role in Preserving His Legacy

The late leader's family, including his wife Pratibha Singh, now the Himachal Congress president, and son Vikramaditya Singh, the state PWD minister, have played a crucial role in keeping his legacy alive in the public eye.

They have actively campaigned for the installation of Virbhadra’s statue on the Ridge in Shimla, placing it alongside that of Parmar. This effort was not merely a family wish but a significant political statement. Both Vikramaditya and Pratibha have often clashed with the Sukhu-led government, subtly reminding the party of the enduring importance of the Virbhadra brand.

The statue's unveiling, which is expected to be attended by prominent Congress leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi, is being framed as a pivotal political event. This highlights the ongoing relevance of Virbhadra’s name within the Congress narrative, reflecting both nostalgia and necessity.

Recognition Across Political Lines

Virbhadra’s lasting significance is further underscored by the respect he commands even from opposition leaders. On his birth anniversary, BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma, a vocal critic of the Sukhu administration and a former Congress member, referred to Virbhadra as “an era in himself.” Former CM and BJP veteran Jai Ram Thakur also expressed admiration for him.

During the fourth death anniversary ceremony at Padam Palace in Rampur, attended by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, dignitaries from various political backgrounds paid tribute to Virbhadra. The Governor described him as “a visionary, a cultural guardian, and a servant of the people,” reinforcing the notion that Virbhadra Singh’s legacy transcends current political divides.