SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh has clarified his stance to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge amid a growing controversy over his recent remarks on street vendors.
Vikramaditya assured the party high command that his intentions align with the Congress’ ideological framework, following accusations that his comments veered towards a hardline approach resembling Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath’s policies.
The PWD minister termed this perception a “misconception” and reaffirmed that all issues surrounding street vending would be addressed by a multi-party committee, set to meet on October 3. The clarification comes in the wake of strong criticism from top Congress leaders after
Vikramaditya suggested making it mandatory for street vendors to display their names. The suggestion, interpreted by some as an alignment with communal identity-based policies, raised concerns within the Congress leadership, which stressed adherence to the party’s core ideologies.
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At a high-level meeting on Friday, Congress general secretary and organisation in-charge KC Venugopal conveyed the party’s commitment to Rahul Gandhi’s philosophy of “fighting hate with love” and underscored that no leader should deviate from the party’s progressive agenda.
The street vendor issue adds to the political turmoil in Himachal Pradesh, following the recent controversy over illegal construction at the Sanjauli mosque and concerns about infiltration by Rohingyas and Bangladeshis in the state. Cabinet Minister Anirudh Singh had earlier raised these issues in the state Assembly, sparking a heated political debate. Vikramaditya’s latest remarks on revealing the identities of street vendors have only fuelled tensions within the Congress, with the Sukhu-led government distancing itself from the minister’s statements.
Despite the pushback, Vikramaditya Singh has not wavered from his position. Addressing the media post-meeting, he reiterated the need for measures to ensure transparency and security in street vending. “Our responsibility is to safeguard the interests of the state’s people and maintain internal security,” Vikramaditya said.
