Fri Sep 27 17:39:29 UTC 2024: ## Congress Rebukes Himachal Minister for Controversial Street Vendor Remarks, Reasserts “Love Not Hate” Ideology

**New Delhi:** The Congress party has reprimanded Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh for his controversial remarks regarding mandatory name displays for street vendors, aligning with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s policy. Singh’s statement, which drew criticism and prompted a clarification from the Himachal Pradesh government, was deemed inconsistent with the party’s ideology of fighting hatred with love, as espoused by former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

Following a meeting with Congress general secretary KC Venugopal in New Delhi, Singh was instructed to adhere to the party’s policies. While Singh claimed his remarks were misconstrued by the media, the Congress leadership emphasized the importance of adhering to its principles.

The controversy erupted after Singh announced that street vendors would be required to display their names on their stalls, citing inspiration from the UP government’s similar directive. However, the Himachal Pradesh government swiftly distanced itself from Singh’s statement, asserting no such policy exists.

Sources indicate that the Congress central leadership intervened in the matter, prompting the state government’s clarification.

AICC Himachal Pradesh in-charge Rajiv Shukla explained that the issue stemmed from the assembly speaker forming a committee to designate specific areas for street vendors, which will involve identification for licensing purposes. However, Shukla stressed that there is no requirement for vendors to display their names on their stalls.

The Congress party’s swift action highlights its commitment to its core ideology of promoting love and inclusivity, even in the face of differing political agendas. The party’s firm stance against Singh’s remarks serves as a reminder of its commitment to its principles, even within its own ranks.

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