Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, October 13
Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday paid tribute to former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, describing him as “a leader who lived among the people and worked tirelessly for their welfare.” Speaking at the unveiling of Singh’s statue at Daulat Singh Park on the Ridge in Shimla, Sukhu recalled his three decades of working alongside the veteran leader in the Congress party.
The Chief Minister welcomed Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to the event, praising the Gandhi family’s long-standing contribution to the state’s development. “Himachal will always remain grateful to the Gandhi family for their unwavering support,” he said, citing landmark institutions such as IIT Mandi, IIM Sirmaur and the Central University as part of their legacy.
Addressing the gathering, Priyanka Gandhi called the unveiling “a moment of pride” and described her family’s emotional connection with Himachal Pradesh. She said leaders like Virbhadra Singh embodied honesty and public service and added that the country needs “leaders who work beyond social media.”
Priyanka also criticised the central government for failing to support the state during recent natural disasters, accusing it of “discrimination for political reasons.”
State Congress chief Pratibha Singh called the event an emotional moment for the party, while Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri described Virbhadra Singh as the “architect of modern Himachal.”
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh said the statue was “a symbol of people’s trust” in his father’s vision, adding that he would strive to follow his ideals.
The event was attended by senior Congress leaders including Sachin Pilot, Deepender Singh Hooda, Rajni Patil and Rajeev Shukla, along with ministers, MLAs and other dignitaries.
