Former Union Minister and incumbent BJP Member of Parliament Harsh Vardhan made a significant announcement on Sunday, revealing his decision to step away from the realm of politics. This revelation followed closely on the heels of the BJP's release of its initial roster of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, a list which notably excluded his name.
In an extensive statement, Vardhan reflected on his illustrious journey spanning "over thirty years of a glorious electoral career." Expressing gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the dedicated party workers, he recounted his victories in five assembly and two parliamentary elections, each triumph marked by exemplary margins. Moreover, he highlighted his tenure in various esteemed positions within both the party hierarchy and governmental frameworks at the state and central levels.
The 69-year-old leader disclosed his intention to reimmerse himself in the medical profession, affirming his readiness to embark on this new chapter. He shared his eagerness to fulfill promises and pursue his aspirations, noting his imminent return to his ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar.
The BJP's unveiling of its Lok Sabha candidates on Saturday brought about a notable reshuffling in Delhi, with the omission of four incumbent MPs, including Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Harsh Vardhan, from the party's lineup. Instead, the party opted for fresh faces to represent these constituencies.
Reflecting on his entry into politics at the urging of RSS leadership, Vardhan underscored his dedication to combatting societal challenges, particularly poverty, disease, and ignorance.
Enumerating his contributions throughout his political odyssey, Vardhan emphasized his tenure as Delhi Health Minister and later as Union Health Minister, roles that allowed him to spearhead critical initiatives such as the polio eradication campaign and the management of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In its inaugural candidate list, the BJP introduced new nominees instead of 33 sitting MPs across various constituencies, signifying a strategic reconfiguration ahead of the impending elections.
