The decision regarding contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Himachal Pradesh rests with the Congress high command, according to Rajeev Shukla, the party's in-charge for the state. Pratibha Singh, the current MP from Mandi, expressed her reluctance to participate in the upcoming polls citing unfavorable conditions on the ground and the demoralization of party workers. Following a meeting of a six-member committee focused on enhancing coordination between the Congress government and the party organization in Himachal Pradesh, Singh reiterated that she had conveyed her decision to the high command and was awaiting their response.
In response to inquiries about her candidacy from Mandi, Singh emphasized that she had left the matter in the hands of the party leadership. The meeting, attended by notable figures including Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, aimed to strategize and discuss potential candidates for both the parliamentary and assembly elections in the state.
Shukla expressed confidence in winning all ten seats in Himachal Pradesh, asserting the strength of the Congress government. Regarding Singh's candidacy, he reiterated that the final decision would be made by the party high command, a sentiment echoed by Singh herself.
Amid the BJP naming disqualified Congress MLAs as candidates for the Assembly bypolls, Sukhu remained optimistic about the Congress's prospects in winning all six seats. Singh affirmed the party's unity and determination to succeed in the Lok Sabha elections, indicating ongoing discussions about potential candidates.
Singh also raised pertinent issues requiring the attention of the state government during the meeting, receiving assurances regarding their resolution. Regarding the challenge posed by Kangana Ranaut, who is contesting from Mandi for the BJP, Singh expressed confidence in the Congress's ability to emerge victorious.
Shukla addressed concerns about Congress leaders defecting to the BJP, attributing such occurrences to the nature of electoral politics. Despite these challenges, Sukhu reaffirmed the stability of the Himachal Pradesh government, emphasizing the party's strength in the current political landscape.
Agnihotri dismissed concerns about further defections, emphasizing the stability of the Congress government and expressing confidence in favorable bypoll results. The Congress coordination committee for Himachal Pradesh, consisting of key leaders, remains committed to navigating the political landscape leading up to the elections.
With the Lok Sabha polls scheduled to begin in April and polling in Himachal Pradesh set for June, the political landscape in the state is poised for a significant shift, with the Congress preparing to face the challenges ahead.
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