SHIMLA: In the wake of internal dissent within the Congress ranks in Himachal Pradesh, a Congress damage control team led by stalwarts Bhupender Singh Hooda, DK Shivkumar, and Bhupesh Baghel has quelled the storm and realigned party focus ahead of the looming Lok Sabha elections.
Addressing the press conference here today showcasing all Ministers and MLAs, they tried to address the concerns raised by recent setbacks, including the loss of a crucial Rajya Sabha seat and crossvote by six Congress Rebel MLAs.
DK Shivkumar said the party has adopted a unified approach towards overcoming challenges and didnot talk about the losing of six Congress MLAs in the dissenting storm.
"Our Chief Minister has acknowledged past shortcomings, but we are committed to rectifying them. Through personal discussions with MLAs and party officials, we've fostered unity and devised a coordinated strategy to secure victory in the upcoming elections," stated Shivkumar.
Central to the party's strategy is the establishment of a coordination committee comprising the PCC President, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and additional members.
This committee, to be formed with representation from Delhi, aims to bridge the gap between party interests and governmental responsibilities, ensuring a cohesive approach towards governance and electoral success, Hooda said.
Amidst speculation regarding the stability of the Congress government, particularly following the tied Rajya Sabha vote, Congress leaders reassured their commitment to the existing Sukhu Government.
"Our Chief Minister will continue to lead for the full term, ensuring stability and progress," they claimed, when asked by the media.
The concerted efforts of the Congress leadership extend beyond mere rhetoric, they claimed.
They actively engaged in dialogue with disgruntled MLAs- not those six rebels- to address grievances and restore harmony within the party ranks.
"We have initiated talks with dissenting voices, seeking resolution and reaffirming our collective commitment to the party's objectives," remarked Shiv Kumar. No MLA, Congress leader will go public on internal party matters", he said.
Furthermore, the party leaders claimed they remain undeterred by external pressures, dismissing allegations of destabilization attempts by opposition BJP.
"Attempts to undermine our government's integrity will not succeed. We stand united in the face of adversity, resolute in our determination to serve the people of Himachal Pradesh," affirmed CM Sukhu.
PCC President Pratibha Singh said the coordination committee will work in tandem with Party and Government and hope the government and party high command address matters raised by them. "We will work as team to fight the Lok Sabha elections", she said.
As of now Congress team has managed to navigate through turbulent waters.
With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the Congress aims to harness this unity to secure electoral victories and reaffirm its position as a political force to take on the BJP in Himachal.
