After Himachal win, Congress says not worried about 'poaching'; BJP says 'your job to protect MLAs'

The Congress, on Thursday, appeared to be heading to register an impressive victory in Himachal Pradesh as it surged ahead of the ruling BJP, winning or leading in 39 of 68 assembly seats.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur conceded defeat saying the BJP accepts the mandate of the people. However, had a word of advice for Congress. "Their MLAs have been elected. Now it is their job to protect them. It is their job to protect the majority, " he was heard saying, according to media reports.

"I respect the mandate. In a short while, I am going to hand over my resignation to the governor," Thakur told reporters.

It is to be noted that Himachal Pradesh has not voted any incumbent government to power since 1985.

However, Himachal Congress president Pratibha V Singh said the party is not worried about poaching. "It is a very emotional moment for me as I can see the same kind of support from people as it was for late Virbhadra Singh. Chandigarh is easily accessible meeting point for MLAs and we are not worried about poaching," news agency ANI quoted her as saying.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had said earlier in the day that it is important for the Congress to protect its leaders from horse trading.