Congress leader Anurag Sharma elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Himachal Pradesh

Congress leader Anurag Sharma was on Monday elected unopposed as a Member of Parliament to the Rajya Sabha from Himachal Pradesh after the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended without any rival candidate in the fray. The Returning Officer formally declared Sharma elected and issued him the certificate following the close of the nomination process.

Sharma emerged as the lone candidate for the seat after the BJP chose not to field any contestant for the election. His unopposed election marked a significant political development in the state, with the ruling Congress describing it as a sign of unity within the party.

Addressing party workers after receiving the certificate, Sharma expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the party leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility. He said the opportunity had come as a surprise for a party worker who had never imagined reaching the Upper House of Parliament.

“This decision has sent a very positive message to Congress workers across the country and has boosted their morale,” Sharma said. Calling his election a matter of great pride, he assured that he would work sincerely to live up to the expectations of the people of Himachal Pradesh.

Sharma, who has long been associated with the tourism sector, said he would make efforts to highlight the state’s concerns and promote tourism at the national level. He added that strengthening tourism infrastructure and showcasing Himachal’s potential would remain among his priorities.

Soon after his election, Sharma was felicitated by senior party leaders and workers at the Assembly complex. On the occasion, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu described the day as a proud moment for Congress workers, saying the rise of a grassroots worker to the Rajya Sabha reflected the party’s commitment to recognising dedication and hard work.

Sukhu said the Congress high command had asked the state unit to recommend the names of four district presidents for consideration. “From among those names, Rahul Gandhi selected Anurag Sharma,” the Chief Minister revealed.

According to Sukhu, the decision to nominate a grassroots worker had conveyed a clear message that the party valued contributions from the organisational level. He said the move would encourage dedicated workers and strengthen the party ahead of future political challenges.

The Chief Minister also rejected allegations made by the BJP about internal differences within the Congress over the Rajya Sabha seat. He said Sharma’s unopposed election had put such claims to rest. “Now the BJP’s Anurag will face Congress’s Anurag in Parliament and he is capable of giving a strong response,” Sukhu remarked.

Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri congratulated Sharma and said the new Rajya Sabha member would have significant responsibilities ahead. He urged him to strongly represent Himachal Pradesh and fight for the state’s rights in the national capital.

Taking a swipe at the BJP, Agnihotri said several party leaders had earlier claimed they would create history in the Rajya Sabha election but ultimately did not even file nomination papers.