“I have been associated with the Congress since 1974 and I should be the top contender for the post,” Hridayesh told media on Friday. However, she said the party high command would take a final decision in this regard.
On the other hand, Bahuguna refused to make comments on the issue when confronted by the media. Other top Congress leaders were also tightlipped.
Bahuguna had been dismissing such reports on as “unfounded” and claiming he is being supported by 41 MLAs in the 70-member House.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also flew to New Delhi as the rumor mill was buzzing that Union Water Resources Minister is likely to be made the new Chief Minister shortly.
In yet another move, a letter purportedly written by 22 legislators has been sent to the party high command claiming that Bahuguna should continue in the state.
“There is a lot of confusion in the ruling Congress these days. There are people who want Bahuguna to be made CM. Others want Satpal Maharaj. A lobby is already working for Harish Rawat. So the list is endless,” said a senior Congress leader.
Ever since Bahuguna was made CM in 2012, a section of Congress leaders led by Rawat had been opposing him tooth and nail.