Vikramaditya Singh Highlights Congress’ Contribution to Tribal Area Development in Mandi Parliamentary Constituency

May 17, Udaipur, Lahaul Spiti District: Vikramaditya Singh, Congress candidate and Public Works Minister, emphasized the significant role of the Congress party in the development of tribal areas. Speaking at an election rally, Singh underscored that the construction of the Rohtang Tunnel was a major achievement of the Congress, with no contribution from the BJP aside from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration. The project was funded by the then-Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and inaugurated by UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Addressing the gathering, Singh praised the late former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh’s deep connection with the tribal regions, highlighting his efforts in addressing local issues. He credited the developmental progress in the area to Virbhadra Singh’s leadership during his six terms as Chief Minister under the Congress government.

Vikramaditya Singh also mentioned the Forest Rights Act (FRA) passed by the Congress-led state government, which is currently awaiting approval from the Governor. He stressed that the Governor must approve this act as it has already been sanctioned by the state cabinet, reaffirming the rights of the tribal communities.

Criticizing the BJP’s candidate for lacking understanding of local culture and religion, Singh pointed out the disrespect shown towards the Dalai Lama, which he claimed would not be forgiven by the state’s Buddhist followers. He remarked that the BJP candidate is temporarily participating in the elections and would return to her film career post-elections on June 4. Singh highlighted internal dissent within the BJP regarding the candidate selection, noting the sidelining of senior BJP leaders.

Vikramaditya Singh stated that his campaign is focused on the development agenda for the Mandi parliamentary constituency, contrasting this with the BJP candidate’s reliance on Prime Minister Modi’s name for garnering votes. He also urged support for Anuradha Rana in the Lahaul Spiti assembly by-election, promising that she would represent the region’s voice in the state assembly.

Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sunder Thakur added that the Congress high command has fielded a promising, young, and experienced leader in Vikramaditya Singh, who is dedicated to the development of both the state and the Mandi constituency. Thakur expressed confidence that Singh’s election as an MP would amplify the state’s voice in the Lok Sabha.