Political chess: Himachal CM Sukhu’s close aide Raizada in contention for Hamirpur Lok Sabha battle
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Congress needs a dynamic leader to take on BJP’s strongman and Union Minister Anurag Thakur
The Newz Radar
HAMIRPUR: In the political landscape of Himachal Pradesh, the spotlight is turning towards Hamirpur parliamentary constituency as talks circulate about the potential candidacy of Satpal Raizada, former Congress MLA from Una, in the upcoming elections.
One of the key factors influencing this development is the perceived “over-representation” of Hamirpur district — Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s home constituency Nadaun is also its part — leading to the exclusion of Congress leader Rajinder Rana from the state cabinet.
With Chief Minister Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri both hailing from Hamirpur parliamentary constituency, speculation arose about either of them contesting from the BJP stronghold, represented in the Lok Sabha by dynamic Information and Broadcasting and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. However, recent circumstances suggest a shift in this narrative.
The buzz now surrounds Satpal Raizada, who brings a fresh perspective to the table. His potential candidacy, if confirmed, signifies a strategic move by the Congress. Deputy CM Agnihotri’s contribution could extend to Una district, while CM Sukhu represents Hamirpur, and a newly inducted cabinet minister hails from Bilaspur.
As new faces ascend to power in state politics following the end of the Virbhadra Singh and Prem Kumar Dhumal era, speculations have also arisen regarding the potential candidacy of Sunil Sharma (Bittu) on the Congress ticket. However, these discussions appear to be driven by a faction discontented with the ascent of Sukhu and his close associates.
This group critical of the Sukhu camp has been targeting individuals like Bittu and Naresh Chauhan, urging them to enter the electoral arena. The argument put forth by this opposing faction is that despite holding positions of power, both Bittu and Naresh have not undergone the electoral process. Naresh Chauhan is the media adviser and Bittu political adviser to CM Sukhu.
Hamirpur parliamentary constituency, historically dominated by the BJP, has seen considerable development under the party’s rule. Initiatives like the establishment of AIIMS and the expansion of the rail network have cemented its status as a key region. Union Minister Anurag played a pivotal role by reaching every household through sports events and health vans, transcending traditional party campaigns.
As the BJP gains momentum with the wave of the Ram Mandir inauguration, the Congress faces a formidable challenge in the parliamentary elections. The Congress’s best bet for Hamirpur seems to be elevating the political career of a dedicated party worker.
Congress MLA Rajinder Rana is reportedly considering his son as a contender, recognising the political stature one could attain by contesting against the BJP in Hamirpur. Additionally, there are murmurs about the Deputy CM’s daughter being fielded on the Congress ticket, given her reputation for effective public relations and a charismatic presence in the Una region.
