TNR News Desk
Dharamshala: In a dramatic twist ahead of the Dharamshala by-elections, former BJP leader Rakesh Chaudhary decided to run as an independent candidate following the controversial nomination of Congress MLA Sudhir Sharma, who had recently switched to the BJP and secured the party’s ticket.
Despite the final day for nomination withdrawals, Chaudhary resisted significant pressure to withdraw from the race. According to local residents and supporters, intense efforts were made to persuade Chaudhary to step aside, but he remained resolute.
“There was immense pressure on our leader from all sides, but he did not bow down because he filed his nomination with the backing of the public,” said Anish Kumar, a local resident and ardent supporter of Chaudhary.
Vipin Chaudhary, another Dharamshala resident, added, “Rakesh worked in the field for a long time; his efforts will not go to waste. He filed his nomination because his own party backed a Congress leader.”
The by-election featured a three-way contest, with speculation rife that Chaudhary’s entry could split the vote between the Congress and BJP. The election results will ultimately determine the impact of this unexpected candidacy on the political careers involved and the future political dynamics in Dharamshala.
Election officers at Dharamshala confirmed that no one came to withdrawal of name from election contest. “Deadline for withdrawal was 3.00 PM, it ended. Withdrawal was nil” he added.
