Signs, deception, and misfortune: The tory of Congress' loss in Himachal Pradesh
PTC News Desk: In a sudden twist of fate, the dynamics of power in Himachal Pradesh took a dramatic turn following the Rajya Sabha election, leaving the Congress party scrambling to salvage its government. With the BJP making swift moves, speculation mounts over a potential no-confidence motion against the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu administration, prompting urgent damage control measures by senior Congress leaders Bhupinder Hooda and DK Shivakumar.
Previously holding a comfortable majority with 40 seats in the 68-member Assembly, the Congress now finds itself on shaky ground. The BJP, sensing an opportunity, wasted no time in engaging Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, fueling rumors of an impending no-confidence motion against the incumbent government.
In the legislative landscape of Himachal Pradesh, the Congress boasts 40 MLAs, while the BJP holds 25 seats, with three Independents further complicating the equation. Despite numerical inferiority, the BJP opted for a contest, nominating veteran politician Harsh Mahajan, formerly aligned with the Congress, against the Congress's candidate, senior lawyer Abhishek Singhvi.
Ahead of the crucial vote, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu hinted at potential subversion, stressing that the Congress would secure all votes "if no one gets sold." Such remarks underscored the party's apprehensions regarding BJP's strategies. State Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan explicitly voiced concerns over BJP's intentions, alleging plans for horse-trading. The issuance of a whip by the Congress to prevent cross-voting was met with criticism from the BJP, labeling it as "unethical."
Following the vote count, both Singhvi and Mahajan secured an equal tally of 34 votes each, signaling defection by six Congress MLAs and three Independents in favor of the BJP candidate. Subsequently, a tie-breaker by draw of lots ensued, favoring Harsh Mahajan against all odds. Notably, the draw of lots, as clarified by a former Chief Election Commissioner, operates on an elimination basis, ensuring victory for the remaining candidate.
Also Read: Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | CAA rules likely to be notified before code of conduct
Also Read: Himachal Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh resigns day after Rajya Sabha polls result
Expressing dismay over his defeat, Singhvi lamented the political fickleness witnessed, remarking on the abrupt shifts in principles and ideologies. He recounted interactions with the dissenting MLAs, further highlighting the unpredictability of their allegiance. In contrast, victor Harsh Mahajan attributed the cross-voting to discontent within the Congress ranks.
The aftermath of the election swiftly escalated into a battle for survival for the Sukhu government, with the BJP asserting the loss of confidence in the ruling dispensation. The purported defections led to the confinement of rebel MLAs by Haryana police, intensifying the political turmoil.
In light of recent events, the credibility of the Sukhu government hangs in the balance. Opposition leader Jairam Thakur has highlighted the ethical lapse within the Assembly, signaling a tumultuous period ahead. With mounting pressure, the fate of Himachal Pradesh's political landscape remains uncertain, as stakeholders await further developments.
Also Read: Himachal Pradesh Political Crisis: Himachal Assembly Speaker expels 15 MLAs over misconduct
Also Read: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu steps down as Himachal Pradesh CM : Sources
(Inputs from agencies)
-
