Congress Fields Royal Vikramaditya Singh Against Kangana Ranaut in HP Mandi Clash

The political landscape in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi Lok Sabha seat is heating up as the Congress party has announced Vikramaditya Singh, a state minister and member of the erstwhile princely state of Bushahr's royal family, as its candidate. He will be contesting against the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) nominee, actor Kangana Ranaut. Vikramaditya Singh, serving as the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department Minister, carries a significant legacy as the son of Virbhadra Singh, a six-time chief minister, and Pratibha Singh, the current Member of Parliament from Mandi and president of the state Congress unit.

Mandi has a history of electing royals, with candidates from erstwhile princely states winning 13 out of 19 elections, including two bypolls since 1952. Vikramaditya Singh, who has been elected twice as MLA from the Shimla rural assembly segment, is familiar with the parliamentary constituency through his parents' successful campaigns. His candidature comes amidst a verbal exchange with Kangana Ranaut, highlighting a contentious battle ahead.

Ranaut's candidature has stirred the political dynamics in Mandi. Known for her roles in Bollywood and outspoken nature, she has been critical of Vikramaditya Singh, leading to a public spat between the two. Despite this, factors such as the BJP's stronghold in Mandi under former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and support from notable figures like Kargil war hero Khushal Thakur and titular king of Kullu Maheshwar Singh could tilt the scales in Ranaut's favor.

The Mandi Lok Sabha seat encompasses 17 assembly segments, with eight reserved for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes. Over the years, it has been represented by various members of royal families as well as non-royals like three-time MP Sukh Ram, Ram Swaroop, and Ganga Singh. The upcoming election promises to be a closely watched contest given the high-profile candidates and their contrasting backgrounds.

As both candidates gear up for the electoral battle, their strategies and public engagements will be crucial in swaying the electorate. With over one lakh ex-servicemen residing in the constituency, their support could play a decisive role in determining the winner. The contest in Mandi is not just a political battle but also a clash of ideologies and visions for the future of Himachal Pradesh.