Sonia Gandhi Arrives in Shimla for Unveiling of Virbhadra Singh’s Statue; Event to Showcase His Legacy and Political Unity
Shimla, October 12: Congress Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi arrived in Shimla on Sunday to attend the historic unveiling of the statue of six-time Chief Minister late Virbhadra Singh at the Ridge on Monday.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, PCC President Pratibha Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Rajni Patil Vikramaditya Singh welcomed Mrs. Gandhi warmly on her arrival at Shimla. Sukhu said her presence was “a matter of immense pride” and “a guiding force” for the Congress family in Himachal.
According to his admirers, Virbhadra Singh was truly the king of people’s hearts. His unique governance style, mass appeal, political wit, and deep sense of humour made him one of the tallest leaders of Himachal.
He is rightly remembered as the architect of modern Himachal, whose vision touched every village, valley, and citizen.
The ceremony will be attended by state Congress president and Virbhadra Singh’s wife, Pratibha Singh, who called the event “an emotional moment for the people of Himachal.” others in attendance will be former Chief Justice Ms Abhilasha Kumari, Virbhadra Singh’s eldest daughter, other members of the family and Congress leaders Rajiv Shukla, Rajni Patil and others.
Their son and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, who has recently got married to Dr Amreen Kaur said, “This statue is not just a tribute to my father, but a symbol of his lifelong dedication to the people of Himachal".
His legacy is etched in every road, school, hospital, and hydropower project that transformed Himachal into a progressive modern hill state.”
In a rare show of political goodwill, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur and several BJP leaders and MPs have also been invited to the event, underlining Virbhadra Singh’s cross-party respect.
The Congress has planned to make the occasion a grand political show, drawing people from across the state.
Despite initial friction, the Virbhadra Singh Foundation and the state government have worked in close coordination to ensure the event becomes both a fitting tribute and a memorable public gathering.
Party sources said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi have also been invited to attend the ceremony, which is expected to see a massive turnout on the Ridge — blending nostalgia, emotion, and political symbolism in the heart of Shimla.
Foundation President Vikramaditya Singh further said they will carry on the legacy of his father on and taking Himachal to new heights of development making it a secure and livable place for every citizen of the state.
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