The Newz Radar
In preparation for the upcoming parliamentary elections, a significant number of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders from Himachal Pradesh are set to convene in Delhi on February 17 and 18. The attendees include sitting MLAs, former MLAs, former ministers, and organizational heads from various party wings, shaping the political landscape for the state.
Strategizing for the Future
The meeting aims not only to provide insights into the upcoming parliamentary elections but also to devise a robust strategy for bolstering the party’s vote share in Himachal Pradesh.
Nadda’s Entry and Ticket Aspirations
With JP Nadda’s recent entry into the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat, aspiring leaders from Himachal Pradesh seeking party tickets for the elections are expected to make a beeline for Delhi to secure their candidacy.
Race for Kangra Parliamentary Tickets
Among the contenders eyeing tickets from Kangra parliamentary constituency are Rahul Pathania, Rakesh Pathania, Tirlok Kapoor, Vishal Nehria, Vishal Chauhan, and Rajeev Bhardwaj. The party, however, has not made any public indication of its preferences.
Rahul Pathania’s Influence
Rahul Pathania, a young BJP leader, showcased his influence during the Zila Parishad elections in Kangra, staking his claim for the chairmanship. His backing to BJP candidate Ranveer Singh Nikka in the assembly elections, gracefully secured him highest vote percentage, second after foremer Chief Minsiter Jairam Thakur, in state.
Rakesh Pathania’s Bid
Former Minister Rakesh Pathania, who contested elections from Fatehpur assembly constituency, holds significance in the race. Having patiently waited for a cabinet position during BJP rule, he eventually became the forest minister. Despite a change in his election constituency to Fatehpur, Pathania secured substantial votes.
Sacrifices of Bhardwaj, Nehria and Chauhan
Vishal Nehria, Ex-MLA from Dharamshala, highlights his claim by sacrificing his seat for BJP’s Rakesh Chaudhary, who unfortunately faced a lukewarm response from party workers during the elections. Meanwhile, Vishal Chauhan, the former head of the party’s youth wing, stands as a staunch party worker, and Rajeev Bhardwaj’s extensive service and organizational role make them strong contenders for the coveted ticket.