The Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) has constituted fact-finding committees to investigate the reasons behind its defeat in the recently held Municipal Corporation (MC) elections. Out of the four MCs that went to the polls, the Congress lost in Mandi, Dharamsala, and Solan, while securing a thumping majority in Palampur.
Committees Tasked with Review
State Congress chief Vinay Kumar directed the committees to review and assess the election results for Mandi, Dharamsala, and Solan. The panels are required to examine all relevant aspects that influenced the outcomes. They have also been instructed to interact with party workers and local leadership to identify the factors that led to the defeats. The committees must submit their reports within a week.
Setback for Congress
The MC elections, fought on party symbols, were considered a semifinal ahead of the next year's Assembly elections. The Congress had entered the polls with confidence after a strong performance in 47 Municipal Councils and Nagar Parishads. However, the BJP bounced back, securing thumping wins in Mandi and Dharamsala, and a comfortable victory in Solan. The Congress had a good chance in Solan but failed to address internal issues, which contributed to its defeat.
Zila Parishad Committees Formed
In addition, the HPCC has formed committees for the formation of Zila Parishads (ZPs) in Chamba, Lahaul and Spiti, Kangra, and Shimla. The Congress is hopeful of securing a majority to have its Zila Parishad chairmen in these districts.
