Himachal Congress : Leaders in Selfie Spree with Rajni Patil

Shimla: Even as the Himachal Pradesh Congress struggles with alleged internal rifts and an organizational structure challenges, party leaders focused on optics.

The appointment of Rajni Patil as the new Himachal Pradesh in-charge by the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has triggered an unusual trend—Congress leaders flooding social media with selfies and photos alongside her.

With the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) dissolved over three months ago, the party has been functioning without a clear leadership structure.

While Patil’s visit to the state was expected to bring clarity on organizational reforms, it has instead turned into a spectacle of leaders showcasing their proximity to her.

Ministers, MLAs, party functionaries and HPCC President Pratibha Singh, have all taken turns in posting their pictures with Patil, seemingly competing for visibility.

Despite the social media buzz, the ground reality remains grim. Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar recently admitted that the party is suffering from organizational paralysis, with no structured leadership to provide direction.

Factionalism has further weakened the Congress, with reports of internal rivalries and legislators defecting to opposition parties, raising concerns over the stability of the state government.

Adding to the uncertainty, Himachal Congress leaders have urged Patil to reconstitute the HPCC with a lean and effective structure, ensuring better coordination between the government and the party organization. However, with no immediate resolution in sight, the party’s future remains uncertain.

More Photos, Fewer Solutions

While Patil has promised to submit a comprehensive report to the party’s high command regarding the restructuring of the HPCC, the overwhelming focus on selfies and group pictures has drawn criticism.

Many believe that Congress leaders should prioritize resolving internal disputes and stabilizing their government instead of indulging in a PR exercise.

As the Congress in Himachal Pradesh continues to face an uphill battle, one thing is clear—the selfie spree with Rajni Patil may make headlines, but it won’t solve the party’s deep-rooted problems.

S Gopal Puri