BJP's Rajya Sabha Stunner In Himachal Triggers More Worry For Congress

In a stunning upset for the Congress, the BJP has managed to pull off a victory for its candidate in the lone Rajya Sabha seat in Himachal Pradesh despite having only 25 MLAs in the 68-member Assembly. The BJP's win was the result of cross-voting by Congress MLAs and a draw of lots that went in its favour. The loss could be much bigger than just a blow to the Congress's prestige as it is likely to face a test while passing the Budget on Wednesday, endangering the party's government in Himachal Pradesh - one of only three states that it rules on its own. Compounding the Congress' pain will be the fact that the Lok Sabha elections are just weeks away. The Leader of the Opposition and other BJP MLAs met Himachal Governor today demanding a division of votes for passing the state Budget instead of a voice vote. If allowed, the division of votes would establish the actual support of each party. Should the Congress government fail to get the Budget passed, it would automatically prove that it lacks a majority in the House.