Virbhadra, Stokes ‘margdarshaks’: Sukhu

Lalit Mohan

Tribune News Service

Dharamsala, July 10

HPCC president Sukhwinder Sukhu, who has been on the receiving end of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his faction, on Tuesday said the veteran leader for invited for Rajni Patil’s programme in Kangra district.

Sukhu said, “Virbhadra and Vidya Stokes are veteran and respected leaders of the party. They are like “margdarshaks”. They are not bound by party directives and free to go and hold their programmes anywhere in the state. They are welcome to the party programmes but not given formal invitation,” he said

“Party programmes are being held under my leadership. In yesterday’s programme, all MLAs were present. Most party workers are with me. Even those opposing me for some reasons, came and met me later to express solidarity with the party,” Sukhu said.

The HPCC president’s statement assumes significance as Virbhadra is not attending programmes organised by the HPCC.

In fact, Virbhadra Singh is holding parallel functions. Sukhu said the main target of the Congress was the BJP government at the Centre and state and Congress leaders should leave their petty issues behind and fight the election unanimously.