Priyanka Gandhi Slams Centre for Step-Motherly Treatment to Himachal; Sonia Gandhi Unveils Virbhadra Singh’s Statue in Shimla.
Shimla:
In a poignant tribute to one of Himachal Pradesh’s tallest leaders, the late Virbhadra Singh, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party Sonia Gandhi today unveiled his statue at the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla. The event, marked by emotional speeches and political undertones, brought together the top brass of the Congress Party and state leadership in a show of unity and remembrance.
Sonia Gandhi also visited a photo exhibition showcasing the life and legacy of the six-time Chief Minister, who was credited with shaping the modern political and developmental landscape of Himachal Pradesh.
Speaking on the occasion, Congress General Secretary and Member of Parliament Priyanka Gandhi Vadra lauded Virbhadra Singh’s legacy, calling him a “true servant of the people” and “a leader whose heart always beat for the welfare of Himachal.” She emphasized her family’s deep connection with the hill state, tracing it back to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. “I not only have a home here in Shimla, but my heart belongs to these mountains,” she said.
Priyanka Gandhi used the platform to deliver a sharp critique of the Central Government, accusing it of meting out “step-motherly treatment” to Himachal Pradesh, particularly after the recent natural disasters that caused large-scale damage across the state. She alleged that despite repeated appeals by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Centre failed to extend any meaningful support to the affected families.
“This is not just about politics—it’s about human lives. While hundreds of families were left homeless and devastated, the Centre chose to look the other way because the state is ruled by the Congress,” she said. She praised CM Sukhu for personally visiting affected families and standing by them, contrasting it with what she termed as the Centre’s indifference.
She also drew parallels between Mahatma Gandhi and Virbhadra Singh, highlighting his unwavering commitment to truth and public service. “Like Bapu guided the nation, Virbhadra Singh guided Himachal Pradesh,” she remarked. Priyanka reiterated that the Congress Party’s strength lies in its dedication to people, not in social media posturing. She added that senior leader Rahul Gandhi embodies these principles by “fearlessly speaking the truth.”
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu welcomed Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi and recalled his close association with Virbhadra Singh over three decades within the Congress Party. Describing Singh as “the leader of roads, development, and public welfare,” Sukhu credited the state’s major developmental milestones—including the IIT Mandi, IIM Sirmaur, and a central university—to the unwavering support of the Gandhi family.
Sukhu noted that Priyanka Gandhi’s presence in the state has further strengthened this bond and even helped boost tourism. “The Congress legacy continues to shape the future of Himachal Pradesh,” he stated.
Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) President and MP Pratibha Singh, wife of the late Virbhadra Singh, said the occasion was deeply emotional. She commended CM Sukhu for emulating her husband’s simplicity and dedication to public service.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri called Virbhadra Singh “the architect of modern Himachal Pradesh,” and praised his contributions to education, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure development. “He had a unique emotional bond with the people. He would meet them late into the night, ensuring their concerns were heard,” said Agnihotri. He also acknowledged the roles of Indira Gandhi and the first Chief Minister Yashwant Singh Parmar in shaping the state.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, son of Virbhadra Singh, said the ceremony symbolized the deep love and respect people held for his father. He vowed to continue his father’s legacy and serve the people with similar dedication. “He worked for employment, education, health, and roads. I strive to follow his ideals every day,” he said.
The event also saw Chief Minister Sukhu honour Sonia Gandhi, while Deputy CM Agnihotri honoured Priyanka Gandhi. It was attended by a host of senior Congress leaders, including state in-charge Rajni Patil, former in-charge Rajiv Shukla, co-in-charges Vidit Chaudhary and Chetan Chauhan, Sachin Pilot, Deepender Singh Hooda, cabinet ministers, MLAs, chairpersons of boards and corporations, and former ministers.
The unveiling of Virbhadra Singh’s statue served not just as a ceremonial event but as a reminder of the Congress Party’s historical and ongoing influence in Himachal Pradesh, with clear political messages about governance, federal support, and leadership legacies.
