BJP banking on veteran’s charisma to pull in votes

Among the very few leaders from Himachal Pradesh to have established themselves as national leaders, BJP veteran leader Shanta Kumar, contesting from Kangra, had in fact announced his retirement from electoral politics 30 months ago. However, destiny seemed to have other things in store for the two-time chief minister.

Among the very few leaders from Himachal Pradesh to have established themselves as national leaders, BJP veteran leader Shanta Kumar, contesting from Kangra, had in fact announced his retirement from electoral politics 30 months ago. However, destiny seemed to have other things in store for the two-time chief minister.

We catch up with Shanta, considered a conscientious politician, as he is dashing across the constituency.

Starting early morning, Shanta’s daily routine stretches late into the night, travelling through rugged terrain holding three-to-four, sometimes over six meetings. However, he still manages to stick to his schedule.

In the hectic election campaign, Shanta rises early in the morning practices yoga and pranayama, which has been a habit with him for the past three decades. After a light breakfast he discusses strategy and the day’s schedule with aides.

After two-and-half-hour arduous journey, the veteran leader is in the remote Bhanjraru village of Tissa in Chamba district.

While taking a tea break of 15 minutes in the rest house, Shanta exhorts party officials to move door-to-door as the polling day inches closer. A bit sceptical on the idea of holding a bigger rally at this crucial juncture, Shanta advocates the strategy of reaching out to the electors in a personal manner.

His advise: “There is a wave in the BJP’s favour, but don’t get swept away.”

“Residents are striving for change. Corrupt politicians have looted this country,” Shanta tells his audience. “Poor people are like gods I consider serving them as the biggest worship. I re-entered politics, because I got another chance to serve you,” Shanta said.

After a hurried lunch, during his 90-miniute stay at Bhanjraru village, Shanta sets out for, Surngani village, where he plans to stay the night.