Pratibha Singh supports identification of migrants, criticises BJP’s politics

Shimla – Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Pratibha Singh on Saturday expressed her support for identification of migrants entering the state citing security concerns, but distanced herself from the ideology and approach of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Singh’s remarks came in the wake of a controversy following her son and Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh’s statement on making identity cards compulsory for street vendors, which the party has rejected.

Speaking to the media in Delhi, Pratibha Singh emphasised that identification of migrants was important for the internal security of the state. “Keeping in mind the internal security of the state, outsiders should be identified to know the purpose of their coming,” she said. However, she clarified that this did not match with the BJP’s methods.

Singh further remarked that the Congress leadership was mindful of public sentiments. “During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi emphasised on leaving hatred behind and spreading love, which we always follow,” she said. This reflects the party’s broad vision of inclusiveness.

The controversy comes after protests in various parts of Himachal Pradesh over the issue of migrant registration. State-based organisations have been protesting for the past one month and demanding verification of migrants and dissolution of the Wakf Board. On Saturday too, Hindu organisations held rallies in districts like Hamirpur and Mandi. Concerns were raised over alleged illegal encroachment and the growing presence of undocumented migrants.

The protesters also submitted a memorandum to the Mandi deputy commissioner, urging the state government to take strict action to stop illegal activities and dissolve the Wakf Board, which is accused of encroaching on local land.

Pratibha Singh criticised the BJP’s role in the growing unrest and accused the party of disturbing the peace of the state. “Himachal Pradesh, known as ‘Devbhoomi’, has always been peaceful. Such incidents never used to happen here. Welfare and safety of people is our top priority,” Singh said.

He accused the BJP of using these tactics to create unrest. “Rumours are being spread and we strongly condemn such acts. We are different from the ideology and way of working of the BJP and we do not accept their methods,” Singh said. He urged people to reject divisive politics.

The Himachal Pradesh government has clarified that no decision has been taken to make identity cards compulsory for street vendors. This contradicts claims made earlier by Vikramaditya Singh.