By celebrating Himachal Statehood Day in Dharampur, CM Sukhu looks to politically strengthen MP Pratibha, MLA Chander Shekhar
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Event being organised for first time in state’s history outside district headquarters
The Newz Radar
MANDI: On January 25, Himachal Pradesh will celebrate its 53rd Statehood Day, commemorating the historic declaration of the state’s full status by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in Shimla’s Ridge Ground in 1971. The government plans to host the state-level celebration in Dharampur in Mandi district, making it a significant event in Himachal Pradesh’s history.
This event holds historical importance as it marks the first time the state government is organising such a grand celebration outside any district headquarters and within a “special” legislative Assembly constituency.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu aims to achieve multiple goals with this event by particularly strengthening sitting MLA Chander Shekhar’s position in Mandi and cementing sitting Congress MP Pratibha Singh’s place for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
With the Lok Sabha elections round the corner, this event is seen as kick-start the major battle ahead as Mandi parliamentary seat is one of the most crucial seats for both the parties. The Chief Minister, who is expected to be accompanied by his team of ministers, will demonstrate his power on the day by sending across a strong message to the people of Mandi that the party is united to the core and is ready to fight the upcoming battle.
The event is being seen as a show of strength and unity by the ruling party, which had been on a backfoot facing allegations of non-co-operation between the government and the party organisation. Mandi is the home turf of former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur as he won nine of the 10 seats from here in the 2022 Assembly elections.
The BJP, thus, considers it as the safest seat for party national president Jagat Prakash Nadda, who is among the probable candidates for the party from Mandi parliamentary seat. His recent visits to the Mandi, Kullu and Sundernagar added more momentum to the discussion, though he himself is denying the same.
Dharampur witnessed a historic victory for the Congress in the 2022 elections, with Chander Shekhar defeating BJP stalwart Mohinder Singh and making a mark in Mandi’s political landscape. Despite expectations, Chander Shekhar has not been appointed to any significant position within the government since the victory, raising concerns among the public.
As preparations unfold, Sukhu is keen on damage control exercises to address dissatisfied MLAs before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The ultimate goal is to reassure the public of the government’s commitment and align Chander Shekhar’s voice with the government’s stance, fostering trust and cooperation.
The event is strategically organised to uplift both Pratibha Singh and Chander Shekhar, showcasing their importance and influence within the government. Sukhu aims to assure the state government’s continued support to the people of Mandi, emphasising the significance of their alliance for the state’s progress.
Meanwhile, Chander Shekhar is working hard to make the event a success in his constituency. While talking to TNR, the elated MLA expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for organising such a prestigious event in his constituency for the first time in the history of state. He said that he had been taking meetings with the heads of all the departments to make this event a memorable one.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister will give away projects worth more than 70 crores to Dharampur other than inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of 14 schemes.He said,
