Why Kirron Kher declined candidacy for 2024 Lok Sabha polls
What's the story
Two-time National Film Award recipient and influential BJP leader, Kirron Kher, recently announced her decision to abstain from the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Chandigarh. Despite her previous victories over Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal in the last two elections, Kher has chosen not to run this time. In an interview with Times Now, she clarified that her decision was due to health concerns following a battle with multiple myeloma.
Health battle
Kher's health concerns prompted political step-back
Kher disclosed her struggle with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, which required a year-long treatment in Mumbai. This health crisis led to her absence from Chandigarh politics for an extended period. In her conversation with Times Now, she stated that she had to be in Mumbai for about a year for her treatment. She further added that she didn't want her party to suffer due to her absence.
Future plans
Kher's political journey will continue despite election withdrawal
Despite stepping back from the upcoming elections, Kher emphasized that her political journey is not over. She expressed enthusiasm about contributing to her party in other capacities. "I am eager to work in so many other fields and do so many other things," she said, also mentioning her recent involvement with the television show India's Got Talent.
Support received
Kher expressed gratitude for support during illness
Kher expressed her gratitude toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support during her illness. She recalled that when she fell ill, he was so kind to her and called her. She also appreciated the affirmation she received from Union Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah for her work in Chandigarh. The Union Territory of Chandigarh is scheduled to cast its votes on June 1.
PM's words for Kher
When the PM advised her to 'relax'
Kher further recalled her conversation with the PM and how he advised her to relax and keep her health as a priority. "He (Modi) was so kind to me and called me when I fell ill. He told me not to worry about anything and urged me to relax since I was so worried about missing Parliament sessions. I never missed the sessions (prior to that) and had very good attendance and participation," she said.