Two major political shows held within a short span in Himachal Pradesh turned out to be far more than routine gatherings. They revealed shifting ambitions, sharpened messaging and an increasingly competitive turf war as both the Congress and the BJP quietly begin preparing for the 2027 assembly contest. Where the Congress used its rally in Mandi to project renewal and organisational muscle, the BJP’s programme in Shimla attempted to push back, reassert central authority and position itself as the moral counterpoint to the ruling Sukhu administration.

Mandi Rally: Not Celebration — A Bid to Reclaim Lost Ground

The Sukhu government’s event in Mandi, branded as a “Sankalp Rally,” was conceived as a demonstration of resolve rather than an anniversary function. The choice of venue was deeply symbolic. In 2022, Mandi had delivered a humiliating verdict to the Congress, denying it nine of ten seats and reinforcing the standing of former chief minister Jai Ram Thakur. Returning to the district was therefore an open declaration that the party intends to challenge the BJP’s fortress and force a rethink of its caste, regional and electoral equations before the next election.

Organisation First — And Little Dependence on Delhi

The turnout owed much to meticulous mobilisation by ministers, legislators and grassroots workers. The absence of top national leaders — occupied by Parliament — did not dilute the event. Instead, it strengthened the impression that the party and government wanted to speak in their own voice, without constantly invoking the high command.

Mukesh........

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