Shimla, Apr 18,
In a turn of events, former Congress MLA and AICC member Rakesh Kalia has returned to the grand old party after a brief stint with the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Kalia, who had joined the BJP in 2022 after being denied a ticket in the assembly election, was welcomed back by the party’s state incharge Rajiv Shukla at the AICC headquarters this morning.
Kalia’s return marks a significant moment for the Congress, as he brings his political experience and support base back to the party. After leaving the Congress in the wake of being denied a ticket, his return has been warmly received by party members. Rajiv Shukla, expressing the party’s joy at Kalia’s return, stated that Kalia’s experience and dedication to the party’s values will greatly benefit the Congress in the upcoming political landscape.
Rakesh Kalia, a seasoned politician, has a long history of public service and electoral victories in the state. He has previously served as a three-time MLA, representing both the Gagret and Chintpurni assembly constituencies. Kalia’s political journey began in 2003 when he contested on a Congress ticket and won from Gagret. He continued his winning streak in 2007, securing victory in a triangular contest with a margin of 16135 votes.
In 2012, when the Gagret seat was reserved, Kalia shifted his focus to the Chintpurni assembly constituency and emerged victorious once again, further solidifying his position as a prominent leader within the Congress ranks.
His return to the Congress fold comes with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of representing the interests of the people of Himachal Pradesh. As he rejoins the party, Kalia has expressed his commitment to continue serving the state and its people with dedication and sincerity. This unexpected reunion serves as a testament to the enduring bond between Kalia and the Congress party, setting the stage for future endeavors in the political landscape of Himachal Pradesh.
