Rajya Sabha Voting Raises Eyebrows: Himachal Congress Faces Allegations of Cross-Voting
Shimla, 27th February 2024: During the voting for the lone Rajya Sabha seat in Himachal Pradesh, concerns have arisen for the Himachal Pradesh State Government led by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu as several lawmakers, including two independents, are believed to have cross-voted for BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan. Mahajan, a former Congress member, urged lawmakers to vote according to their conscience.
Congress leaders noted that nine lawmakers did not show their ballot papers to their polling agents, sparking speculation that they may have voted against Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi. With all 68 lawmakers casting their ballots, a potential tie has been suggested if the nine lawmakers indeed cross-voted. The Congress previously had the support of 43 lawmakers, including three independents, while the BJP had 25 lawmakers.
A candidate needs 35 votes to win, and if there is a tie, the winner is decided by a draw of lots. Chief Minister Sukhu expressed confidence in getting all the Congress votes and accused the BJP of horse-trading. Congress Himachal State Chief Pratibha Singh suggested that some Congress lawmakers may be unhappy with the Government.
On the other hand, BJP leader Jairam Thakur claimed that many Congress MLAs had cross-voted, putting the government in the minority. However, it’s important to note that bringing down a government requires a formal vote in the assembly. The situation remains uncertain until the counting, scheduled for 5 pm, takes place.
