Himachal political crisis: CM Sukhu increases security of 2 Virbhadra faction MLAs, Deputy CM Agnihotri tries to mollify ‘miffed’ Pratibha Singh
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TNR Desk
Facing a political crisis, the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh has bolstered the security of two MLAs considered close to the Virbhadra faction.
Nand Lal (Rampur) and Mohan Lal Brakta (Rohru) have been provided enhanced security detail comprising four constables, in addition to one head constable. Nand Lal has been serving as the Chairman of the Seventh Finance Commission while Bragta holds the position of Chief Parliamentary Secretary.
Sources said the move aims to forestall any further attempts to lure MLAs by the BJP, which previously failed in its bid to destabilise the government. Both MLAs have consented to the heightened security arrangements.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri sought to mitigate the damage by meeting Congress state president Pratibha Singh at her residence Holly Lodge. Pratibha Singh’s persistent statements have exacerbated the government’s troubles and provided fodder for the opposition.
There is also speculation that Pratibha’s son and Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh, who has expressed discontent with Chief Minister Sukhu, may seek a meeting with central BJP leaders in New Delhi.
All eyes are on Vikramaditya Singh’s next move. Immediately after Saturday’s cabinet meeting, two trusted ministers of the Sukhu government, Jagat Singh Negi and Yadvinder Goma, departed for Chandigarh, though the purpose of their trip remains undisclosed. Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan, a close aide of Sukhu, is said to be already in Chandigarh.
Six rebel Congress MLAs who cross-voted in favour of BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan in the recent Rajya Sabha election, leading to the defeat of Congress nominee Abhishek Manu Singhvi, have also been camping in a private hotel in Chandigarh. They have been provided security by the CRPF and the Haryana Police.
