Pratibha Refutes Claims of rifts in Congress, Plans Delhi Visit to Expedite formation of body

Shimla, February 20: Himachal Pradesh Congress President Pratibha Singh has firmly denied allegations that the state Congress is “paralyzed” due to the absence of an executive body for over three months.

Addressing a press conference in Shimla today, Singh rejected criticism from within the party and announced that she will soon head to Delhi to meet the high command and push for the swift formation of the new executive committee.

The denial comes after senior Congress leader and Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar recently labeled the party “paralyzed,” citing a leadership vacuum that has left grassroots workers directionless. Responding to these concerns, Singh clarified, “The Congress organization in Himachal is fully functional.

While there has been a delay in forming the new executive committee, efforts are underway to expedite the process. I will personally meet Congress in-charge Rajni Patil in Delhi to resolve this matter at the earliest.”

The Party is Not Paralyzed, But the Process Must Be Accelerated

Pratibha Singh admitted that the absence of a formal executive has slowed down certain organizational activities but dismissed the notion of a complete breakdown. “It’s not about paralysis; it’s about process.

There are protocols in place for forming the executive body, and we are following them. However, I agree that the process needs to move faster, especially with panchayat elections around the corner,” she said.

Rohit Rathore Chairman of the Cultural Program Sub Committee and Additional Deputy Commissioner 2

Singh revealed that the list of potential office-bearers has already been prepared and will be submitted to Rajni Patil during her upcoming Delhi visit. Patil, who is currently out of the capital, is expected to return after Shivratri.

Singh also confirmed that Patil’s visit to Himachal is scheduled for the first week of March, where further discussions on party restructuring will take place.

Grassroots Workers Deserve Their Due

Emphasizing the need to reward dedicated party workers, Singh highlighted that she has consistently urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to accommodate loyal workers within the government and the party.

“Those who toiled to bring Congress to power must not be sidelined. Those who didn’t get roles in the government will be given significant positions within the organization,” she asserted.

With local body elections on the horizon and the 2027 Assembly polls in sight, Singh stressed the urgency of strengthening the party at the grassroots level. “A robust organization is essential for electoral success.

The sooner we finalize the executive, the stronger our groundwork will be,” she added.

No Room for Factionalism

Singh also addressed concerns about internal rifts, assuring that the formation of the new executive would be an inclusive process. “I don’t want any factionalism within the party.

We’re consulting MLAs, ministers, and senior leaders to ensure fair representation for all,” she stated. She further added that names suggested during consultations, including inputs from the Chief Minister, will be considered when finalizing the executive body.

Calls Out Central Government Over Budget Figures

Taking a swipe at Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, Singh accused him of misleading the public with “false” budget figures during his recent visit to Shimla. “The reality on the ground is starkly different from the claims made.

Himachal Pradesh is not receiving the level of support from the Centre that has been projected,” she said.

A Push for Unity and Stronger Leadership

Pratibha Singh concluded by expressing confidence that, under the guidance of Congress in-charge Rajni Patil, the Himachal Congress will move forward with greater unity and strength. “The party needs to stand together, especially with crucial elections approaching.

I am committed to ensuring that the organizational gaps are filled at the earliest,” she affirmed.

As Singh prepares for her Delhi visit, all eyes are now on the high command’s next move. With growing pressure from senior leaders and grassroots workers, the formation of the new executive committee is seen as critical to revitalizing the party’s structure ahead of key elections.