Winter Capital

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh has provided a new identity to Dharamshala even as government’s presence here gives town the feeling of a capital in the midst of snowfall in Shimla. Political perception is a step towards power as symbolism is attached to every aspect of the life. One needs to understand the journey from winter sojourn to winter capital in the backdrop of political gap between the Congress and BJP. Chief Minister had shifted many offices from Shimla to other district headquarters in the past to strike an emotional chord that later resulted in winter sojourn. No government could do away with the practice of winter sojourn during all these years. Prem Kumar Dhumal government demolished Himachal Bhawan to construct Mini Secretariat at Dharamshala in the midst of regionalism allegations. There have been symbolic fights and leaders have established political history due to their perception. Adamant approach developed Shanta’s image as strong but political weaknesses surrounding him led to emergence of Dhumal era. Prem Kumar Dhumal was never comfortable with the Shanta faction and tried to demolish Kangra’s political superiority. Results of last assembly elections were testimony to this bitterness. Virbhadra has tried to strengthen his bastion in Kangra whose role in the last elections is still bothering the BJP. Entry of Union Minister JP Nadda is not ruled out under these circumstances. One also needs to understand the relation of Kangra and lower areas with political history of Virbhadra Singh. Previous BJP government had to face the heat for its efforts to divide Kangra district. Virbhadra Singh has the credit to maintain the favourable environment in favour of the present Congress government. The move will also hinder aspiration to emerge as biggest district’s leader when Chief Minister has declared to make Dharamshala as winter capital. Winter capital will also stir the political scenario within Congress as there have been voices even against holding winter session at Dharamshala. It has become imperative for the government to operate continuously from here to justify the relevance of winter sojourn and winter session. The government will have to sit collectively and importance of winter session will also enhance by increasing its duration. Virbhadra Singh has worked step by step for establishing winter capital that will have far reaching political ramifications. However, Dharamshala is still waiting for High Court bench. The announcement of winter capital is bigger than any other announcement to suppress voices of opposition.

Thought of the Week

He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature.

-Socrates

 

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