Vikramaditya Singh on Kangana Ranaut: ‘Her Commitment to Mandi is Crucial … Only Time Will Tell Amid Her Many Obligations’
Himachal Congress leader and state minister Vikramaditya Singh recently reflected on his defeat in the high-profile Mandi Lok Sabha election to actor Kangana Ranaut, who won by a margin of 74,755 votes. In an interview with The Indian Express, Singh discussed his loss from a seat that his parents, the late former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, had previously represented.
Despite the setback, Singh views the experience as humbling and beneficial for his long-term political career. He emphasized his resilience and commitment to fighting on, noting the significant increase in vote share compared to previous elections.
Singh also stressed the importance of Kangana Ranaut dedicating adequate time to her new role, given her numerous commitments as an actress. Throughout the campaign, Singh maintained his adherence to Congress ideology, despite incorporating culturally resonant slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” to connect with the local electorate. He addressed controversial moments in the campaign, such as his remarks on Kangana’s consumption of beef, which he framed within the context of traditional practices without intending disrespect.
Singh acknowledged the strong efforts of his party and its leaders in supporting his campaign but attributed part of his loss to the high-profile support and regional appeal generated by his opponent’s campaign.
Despite his initial reluctance, influenced by his responsibilities to his Shimla (Rural) constituency, Singh ultimately respected the decision of senior Congress leaders who urged him to contest, underscoring his dedication to fulfilling his commitments to the people of Mandi as a state minister.
Author:- Apoorva Arora