Written by: Manjeet Sehgal | Place: Shimla | Date: March 6, 2026 | Time: 1:45 AM
The Congress party faces a growing internal crisis as it sidelines veteran heavyweights in favour of younger loyalists. By ignoring established names such as Anand Sharma, Pratibha Singh, Asha Kumari, and Kaul Singh Thakur, the party high command has signalled a radical shift in strategy. This move aims to consolidate the power of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. However, it risks alienating the seasoned leadership that has anchored the party for decades. This article examines the rising tension and whether this gamble will pay off in the 2027 assembly elections.
The Resentment of the Veterans
Veteran leader Anand Sharma has expressed deep hurt over the recent Rajya Sabha nominations. He maintains that his exclusion is not just about a seat, but about the erosion of respect within the party structure. Sharma remains a towering figure in Himachal politics with decades of service to both the state and the country.
“I would not say disappointment, but I will say that self-respect is very expensive in politics,” Sharma recently remarked. He believes that speaking the truth in the current party climate is now considered a “curse.” Consequently, he has decided not to take his grievances to the high command. He insists that he will remain with the people of Himachal Pradesh rather than pleading his case in Delhi.
The Rise of the Sukhu Camp
The decision to field Anurag Sharma, a young district-level face, is a significant power play. Anurag is a known close aide of CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. By elevating him, the party is clearly giving the Sukhu camp an edge over the rival faction led by Pratibha Singh.
The Kangra Factor: Anurag’s roots in Kangra are intended to strengthen the party’s base in this crucial district.
Generational Shift: The high command seems intent on building a new tier of leadership loyal to the current CM.
Sidelining the Legacy: This move further diminishes the influence of the late Virbhadra Singh’s political camp.
Because Kangra is the gateway to power in Himachal, this strategy is high-stakes. If the veterans remain miffed, the party may struggle with internal sabotage during the 2027 elections.
Lessons from the Punjab Debacle
Political observers are drawing parallels between the current situation and the Congress party’s past failures. In Punjab, the party unceremoniously ousted Captain Amarinder Singh at the behest of Navjot Singh Sidhu. Despite Sidhu being junior, he was given preference over the veteran Chief Minister.
This decision led to a catastrophic collapse of the Punjab Congress unit. Therefore, many fear that Himachal might be heading toward a similar fate. Senior leaders like Asha Kumari and Kaul Singh Thakur possess vast grassroots networks. Ignoring them could widen the cracks within the party beyond repair.
Finally, the big question remains: will this new strategy work? While fielding a younger face like Anurag Sharma might appeal to new voters, it leaves the party’s flank exposed. Senior leaders manage booth-level dynamics and local loyalties.
If the high command continues to ignore the “old guard,” they might find themselves fighting a lonely battle in the next assembly elections. The party must find a way to balance fresh energy with the wisdom and experience of its veterans.
