TNR Newz Networks
DHARAMSHALA: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Congress president and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi on Wednesday (January 29, 2025).
The meeting, described as a courtesy call, also focused on key issues concerning the state government and party organisation. During their discussion, Sukhu is learnt to have briefed Kharge on the welfare schemes and development projects being implemented in Himachal Pradesh.
The two leaders also deliberated on strategies to strengthen the party, which has been without an organisational structure for nearly three months following the dissolution of all its committees on November 6, 2024.
Himachal Congress organisational setup inactive for 3 months
With the panchayat elections approaching, insiders say that the delay in reconstituting the party’s organisational units could weaken Congress’ grassroots presence and mobilisation efforts. Many party workers are growing impatient, fearing setbacks in the upcoming electoral battle.
The absence of an organisational setup has left the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) largely inactive, with PCC chief Pratibha Singh being the sole office-bearer.
Meanwhile, the BJP has been aggressively strengthening its ranks, enrolling 1.8 million new members and appointing new block and district presidents.
In November, Congress high command appointed observers like Vidit Chaudhary and Chetan Chauhan to collect feedback from grassroots leaders. While their reports have been submitted, the restructuring process remains stalled, reportedly due to focus on the Delhi elections.
Executive committees likely to be formed after Delhi elections
A senior Congress leader indicated that the new state and district executive committees have been nearly finalised and are expected to be announced soon, followed by block-level appointments.
Unlike past instances where state presidents had autonomy in team selection, this time, appointments will be based on observer reports. The party hopes that the restructuring will reinvigorate its organisation in the state before critical elections.
