Falling for the rightist narrative? Cong leader’s gratitude for Ramandir’s invite, faces scrutiny
ML Verma/Vishal Sarin
Shimla, Jan 13
The public declaration by Congress Leader and Public Works Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh thanking RSS for invitation to become a part of the ‘Pran prtishtha’ at Ayodhya on January 22 signals a noteworthy ideological shift from the Congress’ party’s traditionally secular stance, possibly influenced by the impending 2024 Lok Sabha Election.
” I remain committed to my earlier statement. I intend to visit Ayodhya not as a politician but as the son of the late Virbhadra Singh, a devout follower of Lord Ram. It’s my moral duty as his son to attend. How can I refuse this putra-dharam (son’s duty)?, stated the young leader in a media statement.
Also adding,” However, I want to clarify, I oppose the RSS-VHP, BJP ideology of Hindu Rashtra, and their polarization policies. I am a dedicated Congress worker loyal to its ideology,” he assured.
However, this move by Congress leader seems to align with the rightist ideology communal narrative. Or can even be looked as a move drawing attention away from critical issues such as unemployment, inflation, and financial challenges at both the state and national levels due to substantial borrowing?
Vikramaditya Singh, despite being entrusted with a significant portfolio by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, faced challenges in managing three portfolios concurrently, prompting the prudent decision by the Chief Minister to reallocate the Youth and Sports portfolio. Analysts suggest that handling multiple portfolios, including PWD, proved challenging for Singh.
While Congress supporters and the public in the state remain optimistic, there is a call for the party and its ministers to stay focused on addressing pressing concerns. A recent rally by Himachal Pradesh Electricity unions and retired employees has indeed highlighted the importance of prioritizing basic issues over political posturing, feel the critics.
They added that despite the presence of a team of young, dynamic and professionals officers within the government, the Congress administration has repeatedly faced criticism for retaining individuals in key positions who may have contributed to the shortcomings of the previous Jai Ram Thakur government.
Moreover, the BJP’s decision not to disrupt the functioning of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government by initiating ‘operation lotus’ should also be acknowledged. Perhaps there is no need for the same also, as the Congress government is in any case being accused of aligning itself with BJP’s agenda, notably on the Ram Mandir issue and the adoption of certain schemes associated with the former CM, they stated.
In contrast to the rhetoric of administrative reforms, instances of nepotism and failure to address critical issues within the state bureaucracy persist. High-ranking officials in finance, district administration, and the police have faced criticism for their actions, leading to legal repercussions.
Even, safety concerns need to be reiterated among masses. When prominent businessmen are seeking refuge in the courts, then what would be the common man’s plight can easily be understood.
Critics added that, cabinet meetings have witnessed ministerial absences, indicating a lack of regard for the government’s functioning. Besides, the Congress leadership has refrained from questioning the BJP on issues such as the police paper leak and the non-disbursement of employee dues.
Requests from union ministers for funding of projects, including the Central University, have highlighted the state’s financial constraints, time and again. Yet, there has been a notable absence of questioning the Central government and MPs regarding their apparent disregard for the State’s vital needs.
Critics feel that the need for the Congress leadership is to avoid the distraction of aligning with divisive narratives ahead of the upcoming elections. “Also the grand old party should address internal challenges, refocus on core issues, and present a robust and united front, if they intend to win the oncoming Lok sabha polls,” they concluded.
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