Cong in-charge Patil says Anand Sharma will stay in Congress

Shimla: Putting an end to political speculation, Rajya Sabha member and state Congress in-charge Rajani Patil on Thursday clarified that senior leader Anand Sharma will continue to remain in the Congress. Speaking to the media ahead of the party meeting at Rajiv Bhavan in Shimla, she said internal differences are normal in any organisation, and do not indicate a split. Former Union minister Sharma was upset after he was not announced by the party as its candidate for the March 16 scheduled Rajya Sabha election from Himachal Pradesh. Patil emphasised that occasional dissatisfaction among leaders and workers is natural, adding that Sharma remains an integral part of the party and she met him recently. Patil expressed confidence that the Congress will move forward united and further strengthen its organisation. She added that Thursday's meeting aims to improve coordination between the govt and the party, while also addressing grievances of leaders and workers. Patil also said pending organisational appointments will be completed soon. MSID: 130311701 413 |