Congress Tribal Wing Gets New Leadership, Calls for Stronger Focus on Tribal Rights
The Himachal Pradesh Congress’s Tribal Department received a new leader on Tuesday as Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana formally took charge as its state president during a function held at Rajiv Bhawan in Shimla. The event brought together senior Congress leaders, who used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to the development and welfare of tribal communities.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Dr. Vikrant Bhuria, President of the All India Tribal Congress, launched a sharp attack on the BJP, accusing it of neglecting tribal interests and failing to adequately address issues affecting tribal communities across the country. He said the welfare of tribal people remains a priority for the Congress and highlighted the party’s efforts over the years to introduce laws aimed at protecting their rights and interests.
Dr. Bhuria also praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, describing him as a strong advocate for tribal development and representation. He said Rahul Gandhi has consistently emphasized the need for greater leadership opportunities for tribal communities and announced that a major tribal conference would soon be organized in Himachal Pradesh, with Rahul Gandhi expected to be invited as a special guest.
Looking ahead to future political battles, Bhuria urged party workers to strengthen the Congress organization at the grassroots level and work towards ensuring the party’s success in the upcoming Assembly elections.
Speaking on the occasion, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi congratulated Anuradha Rana on her appointment and expressed confidence that the Tribal Department would play a vital role in expanding the party’s reach in tribal regions. He stressed the importance of recognizing dedicated workers and involving energetic new faces in the organization. Negi also called for a vigorous membership drive to further strengthen the Congress at the grassroots.
State Congress President Vinay Kumar described Rana’s appointment as a significant milestone, noting that she has become the first woman to head the state Tribal Congress. He said her leadership would bring fresh energy to the organization and help it broaden its influence across Himachal’s tribal belt.
In her first address after assuming the role, Anuradha Rana thanked the party’s central and state leadership for reposing faith in her. She pledged to work tirelessly for the development of tribal areas and to pursue key issues concerning tribal communities, including matters related to land rights and the effective implementation of welfare measures.
The event witnessed the presence of several senior Congress leaders and party workers, including MLA Kamlesh Thakur, reflecting the party’s efforts to consolidate support in tribal regions and strengthen its organizational structure ahead of future elections.
