Former Union Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has announced his retirement from politics, opting to return to his medical profession after a distinguished three-decade-long political career. The decision comes as a surprise to many, as Vardhan had been a stalwart figure within the BJP, particularly known for his tenure as the Union Health Minister.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Harsh Vardhan expressed his intention to focus on his medical practice once again. He emphasized his commitment to combating issues such as tobacco and substance abuse, addressing climate change, and advocating for simple and sustainable lifestyles.
Vardhan’s decision to step away from politics coincided with the BJP’s announcement of Praveen Khandelwal as the candidate for the Chandni Chowk constituency, a seat currently held by Vardhan. Notably, Vardhan’s name was conspicuously absent from the party’s initial list of 195 candidates.
The 69-year-old leader, who began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological mentor of the BJP, reflected on his entry into electoral politics at the behest of RSS leadership. He highlighted his dedication to addressing societal challenges, particularly poverty, disease, and ignorance.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan’s tenure as the Union Health Minister garnered attention, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. While he enjoyed a commendable track record in previous roles, the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, particularly during the devastating second wave, exposed vulnerabilities in India’s healthcare system.
Critics pointed to systemic failures and shortcomings in managing the crisis, leading to significant criticism and calls for accountability. Vardhan’s resignation from the health minister post in July 2021, prior to a cabinet reshuffle, was seen by some as a tacit acknowledgment of the government’s challenges in handling the pandemic.
As Vardhan bids farewell to politics, his departure signals a shift in focus for the BJP and underscores the importance of performance and accountability in public service. His decision to return to his medical roots reflects a desire to contribute to societal welfare in a different capacity, marking the end of an era in Indian politics.
Sources By Agencies
