Himachal Congress Leaders Unite to Honor Rajiv Gandhi Amid Internal Struggles

On May 21, 2025, key leaders of the Himachal Pradesh Congress, including CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and PCC president Pratibha Singh, gathered to pay tribute to Rajiv Gandhi. However, this display of unity masks ongoing internal conflicts and a lack of organizational structure within the party. With the Congress holding a majority in the state Assembly, the need for a robust grassroots framework is urgent. As discussions for restructuring continue, uncertainty looms over the future of Pratibha Singh as PCC chief, highlighting the challenges the party faces in upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2025, 15:19 IST

Tributes to Rajiv Gandhi

Shimla: On May 21, 2025, a display of unity was evident as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, and Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Pratibha Singh gathered to pay their respects to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary.

Internal Discord Persists

Despite the public show of solidarity at Sadbhawana Chowk in Chhota Shimla, underlying tensions within the Himachal Pradesh Congress party remain unresolved. Nearly six months have passed since the party's organizational structure was dissolved, yet no significant restructuring has taken place.

Even with the Congress party in control of the state government, it faces an organizational crisis. Analysts note that CM Sukhu, Agnihotri, and Pratibha Singh are still grappling with significant disagreements regarding the establishment of new party committees. Sources indicate that a long-awaited restructuring is on the horizon, with Sukhu positioned as the key figure in this process.

Organizational Challenges

Although the Congress party holds a strong majority in the 68-member state Assembly with 40 MLAs, its organizational framework is nearly non-functional. Following the disbandment of state, district, and block-level committees six months ago, Pratibha Singh remains the sole active leader without a supporting structure.

This lack of administrative support has hindered party operations and engagement at the grassroots level. Rajani Patil, AICC in-charge for Himachal Pradesh, emphasized during a recent visit that while the Congress is not entirely paralyzed, it urgently requires rebuilding efforts at the local level.

Delays in Restructuring

Numerous discussions among Sukhu, Agnihotri, and Pratibha have taken place to finalize the new organizational structure, but disagreements over regional and caste representation have stalled progress.

Sources suggest that Sukhu, having gained confidence from the central leadership after successfully countering the BJP's alleged 'Operation Lotus' in early 2024, is expected to have the final say on appointments. With increasing influence in Delhi, he is likely to present his recommendations to the high command soon. A senior party member noted that Sukhu is proceeding cautiously, especially with an eye on the 2027 elections, aiming to avoid actions that could exacerbate divisions.

Future of Pratibha Singh as PCC Chief

There is growing uncertainty regarding Pratibha Singh's future as PCC chief. As the only Congress-led state in North India, the stakes are particularly high for the party in Himachal Pradesh. Its success in upcoming elections may hinge on its ability to mend internal rifts and effectively rebuild its grassroots support.

Conclusion

Sunil Chadha