BJP Wins Rajya Sabha Poll In Himachal After Congress Cross-Voting, Demands CM’s Resignation

Shimla: In a stunning upset for the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has clinched victory in the Rajya Sabha election for the lone seat in Himachal Pradesh. Despite holding only 25 seats in the 68-member Assembly, the BJP secured the win through cross-voting by Congress MLAs and a tie-breaking toss in its favour.

This upset could have far-reaching consequences for the Congress, potentially leading to a no-confidence vote and endangering its government in Himachal Pradesh. With Lok Sabha elections looming, the timing compounds the challenges for the Congress.

Jairam Thakur, Leader of the Opposition and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, hailed the BJP’s victory, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, and Home Minister Amit Shah. Thakur emphasized the significance of this win given the odds against the BJP.

Despite having 40 MLAs, the Congress faced defections during the voting process, with six of its MLAs and three Independents reportedly supporting the BJP candidate, Harsh Mahajan. This shift led to a tie between Mahajan and Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, ultimately decided by a coin toss favouring Mahajan.

Singhvi criticized the BJP’s strategy, highlighting concerns over the party fielding a candidate with significantly fewer MLAs, suggesting a disregard for legal norms and principles.

Furthermore, allegations surfaced of Congress MLAs being taken to BJP-ruled Haryana, heightening tensions. Chief Minister Sukhu condemned this action, labelling it as “hooliganism.”