The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Himachal Pradesh): In Shimla, Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress candidate for the Mandi Lok Sabha seat and a current minister in Himachal Pradesh, has publicly challenged BJP’s nominee, actress Kangana Ranaut, to an open debate to discuss their respective visions for the constituency. This challenge was issued during a press conference where Singh emphasized the importance of a vibrant democracy and the need for candidates to present their plans to the electorate.
Singh criticized Ranaut’s campaign approach, noting her frequent mentions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi instead of detailing her strategies for Mandi. He expressed respect for the Prime Minister but urged Ranaut to share her own vision. Singh highlighted his accomplishments in Mandi and his goals if re-elected, suggesting that such a debate would inform the people of Mandi, enabling them to make a knowledgeable choice for their representative.
Furthermore, Singh accused Ranaut of lacking a deep understanding of the state’s history and geography, claiming she merely recites scripts prepared by others without being able to respond to spontaneous questions.
In response, while addressing a rally in the Nankhari area of Mandi, Ranaut countered Singh’s criticisms by invoking the late former chief minister Virbhadra Singh. She claimed he would have disapproved of Vikramaditya Singh’s comments towards her, which she described as disrespectful, and suggested that Virbhadra Singh would have advised him to apologize.
Ranaut dismissed the possibility of excusing Vikramaditya Singh for his remarks but also rejected the idea of him assuming leadership. This exchange highlights the heated nature of the campaign trail in Himachal Pradesh as candidates prepare for the upcoming elections.
