In Mandi, nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, the BJP’s nominee for the Lok Sabha constituency, Kangana Ranaut, graced the streets with a vibrant procession.
Expressing her steadfast commitment to progress, the acclaimed actress implored the populace to regard her as kin.
“Presently, the entire nation witnesses the profound affection my homeland showers upon me, embracing their own progeny. My grandfather, a luminary figure, dedicated his life to the service of this populace. If elected, I shall exhaust all avenues in service to you. The residents of Mandi are my kin. Dispel any notion of Kangana as a star or an actress. Instead, envision Kangana as your own. She embodies your lineage, your sister,” articulated Kangana Ranaut.
Amidst an enthusiastic throng, the ‘Queen’ luminary reciprocated the warm reception with gracious waves. “The sizable turnout speaks volumes. A multitude has convened, their hearts swelling with pride, as the daughter of Mandi, the patriotic voice of Mandi, vies for representation in this electoral battle,” remarked the BJP’s Mandi candidate ahead of the spirited procession.
“For both myself and the BJP, development stands as the pinnacle concern. It is the cornerstone of our agenda and my foremost commitment. The residents of Mandi shall divulge the contents of their hearts,” Kangana asserted amidst resounding ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chants from her supporters.
Yet, Kangana may confront a formidable adversary in Himachal Pradesh Congress President Pratibha Singh, who expressed readiness to contest from Mandi, a seat she secured in a by-election in 2021.
Pratibha Singh, on Thursday, conveyed her preparedness to vie against Kangana Ranaut if instructed by the Congress leadership. “Should my name be endorsed, I shall embark upon the electoral fray. My tenure as an MP has acquainted me with every nook and cranny of the Mandi constituency. While the BJP has nominated their contender, I have been apprised of my merit during recent deliberations. The party deems me the most suitable candidate for Mandi, having traversed its entirety. My nomination awaits endorsement from the High Command, and I shall abide by their directives,” articulated Pratibha Singh.
Himachal Pradesh, endowed with four parliamentary constituencies – Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra – witnessed a clean sweep by the BJP in 2019. The forthcoming elections for the four Lok Sabha seats in Himachal Pradesh, alongside by-polls for six assembly constituencies, necessitated by the disqualification of six rebel Congress MLAs, are slated for June 1.