Pratibha Singh Writes to ECI, Opposes Use of Virbhadra Singh’s Name for New Political Parties
Former Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee president Pratibha Singh has urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) not to register any political party using the name or legacy of her late husband, six-time Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.
In a letter to the Election Commission, Pratibha Singh expressed concern over reports and social media discussions suggesting that some individuals are planning to launch new political outfits using Virbhadra Singh’s name and public goodwill. She also requested that the Commission give her an opportunity to present her views before taking any decision on such applications.
According to her, names such as Rashtravadi Virbhadra Congress and Veer Congress are being circulated on social media in connection with proposed political parties. She further claimed that efforts were also being made to register parties using names like Raja, Bushahar and Raja Bushahar, all of which are closely associated with Virbhadra Singh’s identity and political legacy.
Although she did not identify any individual or organisation behind these alleged efforts, she said the developments had raised concerns within the family.
Describing Virbhadra Singh as one of Himachal Pradesh’s most respected political leaders, Pratibha Singh noted that he served six terms as Chief Minister and also held important responsibilities at the national level as a Union Cabinet Minister. She said his popularity and influence remain strong across the state, especially with the 2027 Assembly elections approaching.
Pratibha maintained that while every citizen has the right to form a political party, using her late husband’s name or reputation without the family’s consent is unacceptable. She clarified that neither she nor any member of the family has authorised any individual or group to establish a political organisation in Virbhadra Singh’s name.
She has therefore urged the Election Commission to reject any application seeking registration of a political party under the names mentioned in her letter, or any other name that could be seen as exploiting Virbhadra Singh’s legacy for political gain.
The letter underscores the family’s concern over preserving the identity and legacy of one of Himachal Pradesh’s most influential political figures amid growing political activity ahead of the next state elections.
