DHARAMSHALA: Former Union Minister Anand Sharma, the Congress candidate from the Kangra parliamentary constituency, kicked off his election campaign with a tribute to his lifelong connection with the region.
Addressing a gathering of supporters, Sharma reminisced about his childhood visits to the temples in Kangra, including the Jwalaji Temple, expressing his deep-rooted bond with the area. “I can’t be called an outsider as I have travelled to every corner of Kangra and Chamba districts,” Sharma said, highlighting his extensive familiarity with the region. “My association with the Congress spans 52 years, and I am thankful to the party’s high command for entrusting me with this responsibility.”
Reflecting on his previous tenure as a Union Minister, Sharma emphasised the developmental initiatives undertaken for Himachal Pradesh. “Shimla is my birthplace, and my work has resonated across Himachal and the nation,” he asserted, underscoring his commitment to public service.
Responding to inquiries about the Congress’s prime ministerial candidate, Sharma urged a focus on forming the government first. He then pivoted to address pressing issues facing the populace, decrying inflated promises and advocating for pragmatic solutions to unemployment and inflation.
“Our promise is to dismantle Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s hollow schemes like the Agniveer,” Sharma declared, highlighting the party’s dedication to addressing genuine concerns.
Earlier in Shimla, Sharma paid homage at the Kalibari temple before proceeding to Annandale ground, accompanied by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. In response to critiques from BJP stalwart Shanta Kumar, Sharma reiterated his commitment to the electorate and praised Chief Minister Sukhu for his dedication.
