MANDI/KULLU: Maheshwar Singh, a senior BJP leader and former Mandi BJP Lok Sabha MP, has voiced opposition against the party's decision to field Kangna Ranaut, a new face of the BJP, from Mandi.
Singh, who has had a "Love and hate" history with the BJP, including launching his own Himachal Lokhit Party which he later merged with the BJP, expressed his concerns regarding the departure from party principles in ticket allotment.
Though the leader of the opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur met with him and tried to placate him, but Maheshwar went on record and opposed Kangna as candidate from Mandi.
In a viral video circulating on social media, Singh criticized the BJP for deviating from its principles while selecting candidates for both Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections.
He highlighted widespread dissent within the party ranks regarding the nomination of Kangna, stating that she has not contributed to the party's endeavors in Mandi.
Singh lamented the transformation within the party, noting that in the past, office bearers were prohibited from seeking tickets for themselves, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
However, he observed a shift in the party's dynamics, attributing it to the expansion of the party as a "big family."
He emphasized the need for party members to prioritize organizational work over personal ambitions, a sentiment he feels has been neglected in recent times.
While acknowledging the party's prerogative in choosing candidates, Singh urged for a reevaluation of the selection criteria, particularly emphasizing the importance of merit and contribution to the party's cause.
He raised concerns over the disregard for established rules and principles, citing instances where familial ties seemed to dictate ticket allocations in some cases, but not considered in other cases hinting out at denial of party ticket to him or his son.
Singh's remarks reflect a broader concern within the party regarding the transparency and fairness of candidate selection processes.
