For Karan Bhushan Singh, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be a battle of nerves. The national level trap-shooting sports champion and younger son of senior BJP leader Brij Bhushan Singh — accused of sexual harassment by several woman wrestlers — has been fielded from Kaiserganj Lok Sabha seat by the saffron party.
One of the youngest candidates to contest polls, Karan spoke to News18 about his plans to bring development to his constituency and ensure proper training for budding sportspersons in his hometown. The 33-year-old also spoke about the accusations against his father — the former Wrestling Federation of India chief.
Edited Excerpts:
Were you aware that the Lok Sabha ticket would be offered to you instead of your father, who is the sitting MP?
Not at all. I came to know from a mediaperson who approached me to take my byte. It was after enquiring with my father and other senior leaders that it was confirmed that BJP has announced me as its candidate from Kaiserganj.
It’s a big responsibility, especially at the age of 33. How do you see this?
Indeed, it’s a big responsibility. I have been assisting my father and helping him handle political affairs. But, never in my dreams did I imagine contesting polls and that too the Lok Sabha elections. I am thankful to the BJP for considering my candidature. I am trying my best to handle it like an ace politician. I am lucky to have my father by my side who is standing as a firm support and is helping me throughout.
People of Kaiserganj have accepted you; they are often seen showering blessings on you at Chunavi Sabhas. Do you think people will vote you to power?
Kaiserganj is home for me and its people are my family members. Since 2014, BJP has carried out massive development work in our constituency and life here is better now. I still remember the time when we used to get electricity for just three hours a day. People are happy with the development work. Wherever I go, people treat me like a family member and assure complete support. I am sure that I will win with a record margin.
Is the INDIA bloc a challenge?
No. We have carried out extensive development work in the constituency and will continue to work to bring development to the people of Kaiserganj. People have trust in us and also on ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’. I am sure this trust will transform into votes. Though there is little time left, I am trying to cover every nook and cranny of the constituency in order to give my best.
What are the basic issues your constituency is grappling with and how are you going to fix them if voted to power?
I think the very first thing I would like to start with is infrastructural development. Kaiserganj is in dire need of road widening and flyovers to decongest roads and crossings. I will address this first if voted to power. The second issue I would like to take up is that of unemployment. A big section of youth in Kaiserganj prepare for the armed forces. I will chalk out a plan to provide them better training and other facilities in order to help them achieve their goals.
There were allegations of sexual harassment against your father. The Delhi court has also framed charges against him. What will be your next move?
My father is innocent. It is all a trap. Even the people of the constituency know it. This is the only reason we all stand united in this hour of need. The matter is sub-judice and I am sure things will be in our favour. Otherwise, we have other legal options open too.
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