Is Vikramaditya Singh Defying Congress High Command By Pushing For Vendors Registration?

New Delhi: Rapped Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh stands firm on his recent remarks regarding the mandatory display of identification for street vendors, despite significant backlash from the Congress party. Addressing the media on Monday, Vikramaditya emphasized the importance of following legal protocols, stating, "The responsibility of street vendors is to have a certificate and ID card," referencing the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Act and the Street Vendors Protection Regulation Act.

Singh's comments came after he faced criticism for suggesting that all shopkeepers and street vendors display their identity cards. Defending his position, he insisted, “My words were twisted, and people made it communal. Everything I said was related to law.”

The minister also addressed rumors regarding his meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw , clarifying that it was pre-scheduled and not a result of being summoned by the Congress High Command. "I am saying it on record that the party line is of utmost importance, but raising issues pertinent to Himachal and voicing the concerns of the people is equally critical," he stated.

In his remarks, Singh expressed a commitment to the welfare of all residents in Himachal, regardless of their background. "Any person belonging to any race or caste is welcome in Himachal. We need to ensure the security and interests of our people," he added. He criticized recent incidents in the state as "unfortunate," asserting that if illegal structures are identified, appropriate legal action would be taken.

The minister emphasized that the formation of a committee to discuss vendor registration is underway and will involve all parties, including opposition members. "Protecting the interests of Himachal and taking it forward is our duty, and we will never step back from this," he affirmed.

Vikramaditya Singh reiterated his stance that his intentions were clear and that he remains accountable to both the party and the people of Himachal Pradesh .

Here's how Congress High Command rapped Vikramaditya 

Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said Vikramaditya Singh was “told clearly” that “party ideologies” were clear on these issues. In his defence, Vikramaditya Singh told KC Venugopal that he was misquoted by the media. After meeting Vikramaditya Singh over his “nameplate on eateries” remark, Venugopal said, “I strongly conveyed the sentiments of the Congress party. No minister or party functionary can go against the party's policies and ideologies. Rahul Gandhi is spreading love and affection against hatred. We cannot create hatred. We believe in unity.”

“We told him very clearly that the Congress ideology and Congress policies are very clear on these lines. He told me that he was misquoted by the media and there was no such intention,” Venugopal said.

Vikramaditya had made it very clear that it will be mandatory for all shopkeepers and street vendors in the state of Himachal Pradesh to display their identity cards.