S Gopal Puri
DHARAMSHALA: In a move being read as both political outreach and internal damage control, Himachal Pradesh Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Thursday met senior BJP leader and ex-CM Shanta Kumar at his Palampur residence.
The meeting lasted nearly an hour and came close on the heels of Shanta Kumar’s recent remarks praising Sanjay Prashar, a BJP rebel who contested the last Assembly election as an Independent from Jaswan Pragpur seat in Kangra against BJP’s Bikram Thakur.
Party sources said the meeting revolved around the state’s political climate, the strengthening of the organisation and the BJP’s strategy as it plays the role of opposition in Himachal Pradesh. However, given the timing, many view Jai Ram Thakur’s visit as a strategic attempt to iron out differences following the veteran’s unexpected endorsement of a former rival.
After the meeting, Jai Ram Thakur posted on social media that he had sought “guidance and blessings” from the senior leader. “Shanta Kumar ji’s experience and vision continue to inspire the state’s political and social landscape,” he wrote.
Political observers say the visit also highlights an effort by Jai Ram Thakur to bridge the generational gap within the BJP’s Himachal unit, particularly in Kangra, the state’s largest district and a key political battleground.
Shanta Kumar’s words stir internal ripples
The controversy traces back to a recent press note in which Shanta Kumar lauded Sanjay Prashar, describing him as “a young and capable leader with a clear vision for development.” The remark caused unease in party circles since Prashar had previously contested against sitting BJP MLA Bikram Thakur.
The statement, according to analysts, risked sending mixed signals to grassroots workers, especially in Kangra, where Shanta Kumar’s influence remains formidable. “For decades, his voice has carried moral weight in the region. Even a small deviation from the party line can reshape local equations,” said a political observer from Dharamshala.
Signal of reconciliation within the party
Though both leaders described the meeting as “cordial and routine”, the optics point to a quiet reconciliation effort. The BJP, currently in opposition, is keen to project unity amid organisational restructuring in the state ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
With Shanta Kumar’s independent streak and Jai Ram Thakur’s bid to consolidate leadership, Thursday’s meeting sent out a message of togetherness — suggesting that the party wants no visible rift as it prepares for the next political battle in Himachal Pradesh.
