Pratibha Singh moves ECI against parties using Virbhadra name
Shimla, Oct 7,
Former Congress MP and widow of former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Pratibha Singh, has urged the Election Commission of India not to register or recognise any political party seeking to use the name or legacy of the late leader.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner on Wednesday, Pratibha Singh said certain persons were attempting to form new political outfits using the goodwill and public image of Virbhadra Singh ahead of the 2027 Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections.
She specifically referred to names such as “Rashtravadi Virbhadra Congress” and “Veer Congress”, besides attempts to facilitate political formations using terms such as “Raja”, “Bushahar” and “Raja Bushahar”, which she said were closely associated with Virbhadra Singh and his legacy as the former ruler of the erstwhile Bushahr State.
Pratibha Singh said she had no objection to anyone exercising the right to form a political party, but opposed the use or misuse of her late husband’s name and goodwill. She made it clear that neither she nor any member of the family had authorised or consented to the use of his name for such political purposes.
She requested the Commission to take strong action and not permit registration of any political party under the names mentioned in the letter, or under any similar name that could misuse Virbhadra Singh’s identity and legacy. She also sought an opportunity to be heard before the Commission takes any decision on such an application.
Virbhadra Singh, who served as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister six times and also held several positions as a Union Cabinet Minister, remained firmly associated with the Indian National Congress throughout his political career.
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Even during periods of intense political differences and pressure, he did not sever his affiliation with the Congress or float a separate political organisation. His long association with the party and his political legacy continue to carry considerable influence in Himachal Pradesh.
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