Shimla: Sonia Gandhi Unveils Statue of Virbhadra Singh, Congress Leaders Showcase Unity
On Monday, a grand ceremony was held at the historic Ridge in Shimla to unveil the statue of former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and architect of modern Himachal, Late Virbhadra Singh. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, along with MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, arrived in Shimla to participate in the event.
Several senior Congress leaders including Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Sachin Pilot, Rajya Sabha MP Rajni Patil, MP Deepender Singh Hooda, and former Congress in-charge Rajeev Shukla were present at the event. Thousands of people from across the state gathered at the Ridge, many arriving with traditional instruments and performing folk dances like Nati.
Sonia Gandhi unveiled the statue and paid tribute to the late leader. An exhibition showcasing Virbhadra Singh’s life and contributions was also inaugurated during the event. Given the high-profile presence, extensive security arrangements were in place, with CRPF and intelligence officials monitoring the Ridge and surrounding areas.
Congress leader Sachin Pilot called Virbhadra Singh one of the tallest leaders of Indian politics and emphasized carrying forward his legacy. MP Deepender Hooda lauded Singh’s immense contribution to Himachal and congratulated the state government for organizing the ceremony.
The event also served as a show of strength and unity for the Congress ahead of the upcoming Panchayati Raj and municipal elections. Around 10,000 attendees were expected, with 7,000 chairs arranged at the venue.
Virbhadra Singh had a remarkable political career, serving as CM six times, winning nine assembly elections, and being elected to Parliament five times. He held key portfolios in the central government, including Steel, Industries, Tourism, and Small-Scale Industries. Known as the "architect of modern Himachal," Singh made lasting contributions in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He passed away on July 8, 2021, at IGMC Shimla.
3 Comments