Political temperatures in Himachal Pradesh have risen sharply after senior Congress leader Kaul Singh Thakur publicly questioned the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, bringing the party’s internal rift into the open.
Speaking at a public gathering, Thakur claimed that had he won the last assembly election, he- not Sukhu- would have been leading the state today. His statement has triggered fresh debate within political circles, especially in regions like Shimla and Mandi, where factional politics within the Congress has been simmering for some time.
Even more than three years after the Congress formed the government in Himachal Pradesh, internal disagreements continue to surface. Thakur, an eight-time MLA and former cabinet minister, has been increasingly vocal about what he describes as being sidelined by the current leadership. In earlier instances too, he had raised concerns about ministers not getting adequate work, indirectly targeting the functioning style of CM Sukhu.
The latest remarks have also revived memories of Thakur’s long-standing ambition to become Chief Minister. Back in 2012, when Virbhadra Singh assumed office for a sixth term, Thakur was considered a strong contender for the top post. He had even publicly asserted his claim during the 2017 elections, citing his experience and seniority. However, political dynamics and Virbhadra Singh’s dominance kept him from reaching the Chief Minister’s chair.
Ironically, after Thakur lost the 2017 election from Drang, another Mandi-based leader, Jai Ram Thakur, went on to become Chief Minister. The 2022 elections brought fresh hope for Thakur, but fate dealt another blow when he was defeated by his own former protégé Purna Thakur by a narrow margin of less than 1,000 votes. According to Thakur, the party high command had considered his experience for the Chief Minister post, but his electoral defeat changed the equation entirely.
With a political career spanning nearly five decades since 1977, Thakur has held key portfolios including law, health, revenue, and irrigation. Despite his vast experience, recent years have not been kind to him politically. After his defeat, he expected a significant organizational role in recognition of his contributions, but the lack of such an opportunity appears to have deepened his dissatisfaction.
Another major reason behind his heartburn is the perceived neglect of development work in his constituency, Drang. Feeling increasingly ignored, Thakur now seems to be shifting his focus toward establishing the next generation in politics, although his daughter Champa Thakur has already faced electoral defeat from Mandi Sadar.
For now, Thakur has indicated that he may not contest future elections, but whether he sticks to this decision or returns under pressure from the party high command remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that his growing discontent poses a fresh challenge for the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, especially at a time when unity within the party is crucial for its political stability.
