Veteran BJP leader Harsh Vardhan bows out of active politics

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, March 3

Former Union Minister and BJP MP from Chandni Chowk, Dr Harsh Vardhan, announced his decision to step back from politics and return to being a doctor on Sunday. He shared this news on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), following the BJP’s announcement of its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Election.

In a lengthy post on X, he stated, “After over 30 years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all five Assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and Centre, I finally bow out to return to my roots.”

My ENT clinic awaits my return

I move on, I really can’t wait. I have promises to keep... and miles to go before I sleep!! I have a dream… and I know your blessings shall always remain with me. My ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar too awaits my return. — Dr Harsh Vardhan, former union minister

He expressed his initial motivation to serve mankind, citing his desire to help the poor and needy since his days as a medical student at Kanpur’s Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College. He highlighted his commitment to the philosophy of Antyodaya, inspired by Deendayal Upadhyay’s principles, and recounted his entry into politics at the urging of RSS leadership.

Throughout his political journey, Dr Vardhan emphasised his dedication to combating poverty, disease and ignorance, particularly through initiatives such as the ‘Polio-free India’ campaign and his leadership in managing India’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I served as Delhi Health Minister as well as twice Union Health Minister, a subject close to my heart. I had the rare opportunity bestowed upon me to be able to first work towards creating a Polio-free Bharat and then to take care of the health of millions of our countrymen grappling with the dreaded Covid during its first and second phases,” his post read.

Dr Vardhan expressed gratitude to his party workers, supporters and leaders, including PM Narendra Modi. He pledged to continue his efforts against tobacco and substance abuse, climate change and promoting sustainable lifestyles.

“A big shout out for all those who stood by me like a rock while I clocked many firsts and led a fulfilled political life,” he said.

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