During a campaign speech at Balh assembly constituency in Mandi, Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh launched a sharp critique against his opponent, Bollywood actress and BJPs Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut. Singh accused Ranaut of lacking a fundamental understanding of history and facts, pointing to her statements regarding Indias freedom struggle.Singh remarked, When did India get freedom Who was our first Prime Minister Even a child knows these things. He went on to criticise Kanganas assertion that India achieved freedom in 2014, questioning the basis of such a claim. What freedom did India achieve in 2014 Singh questioned, highlighting the sacrifices of freedom fighters like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Sardar Patel, and Mahatma Gandhi.The Congress candidate described Kanganas characterization of Indias freedom in 1947 as bheekh (alms) as an insult to the legacy of those who fought for independence. He further stated, I want to remind you (Kangana) that your remarks have even insulted Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Singh emphasized the significance of Indias nuclear power status during Vajpayees tenure and criticised Kangana for allegedly disrespecting BJP leaders.Appeal to the Public and Critique of NepotismAddressing the public, Vikramaditya Singh emphasized the importance of party workers, stating that they are the identity and strength of the political movement. He reflected on his fathers respect for party workers and pledged to continue that legacy. Singh urged the public to support him, promising to be their voice in Parliament and work tirelessly for their welfare.Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut responded by accusing the Congress party of promoting nepotism. Speaking at a Panna Pramukh Programme in Baldwara, Kangana criticised the Congress for allegedly favouring family members of its leaders for political opportunities. She contrasted this with the BJPs approach, highlighting that even ordinary citizens and party workers receive electoral tickets within the BJP.Kangana also took aim at the Congresss governance, alleging doubts cast on the armys integrity, disparagement of women, and disrespect towards revered figures like Lord Rama. She claimed that numerous scandals unfolded under Congress governance, contrasting it with the purportedly scandal-free period since 2014.
