Imphal, June 8 (UNI) BJP Manipur president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi on Mondayy filed her nomination papers for the upcoming Rajya Sabha election from Manipur and pledged to champion women's welfare, empowerment, and issues concerning the state's territorial integrity if elected to Parliament.
So far, no other candidate has filed nomination papers.
Sharda Devi said her experience of working with women affected by the ethnic violence in Manipur would guide her priorities in the Upper House.
"We had set up relief camps for women affected by the ethnic violence in the state. If elected, I intend to raise women-related issues in Parliament," she said.
The BJP leader stated that women’s empowerment and development-oriented initiatives for women would remain among her primary areas of focus.
"As a woman myself, my priorities would be development-related issues concerning women and strengthening their empowerment," she added.
Sharda Devi also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP leaders, and the party's central leadership for nominating her as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate for Manipur's lone Rajya Sabha seat. She said she would raise issues related to safeguarding Manipur's integrity and addressing concerns voiced by the people of the state.
The Election Commission has scheduled polling for the Rajya Sabha seat on June 18. June 8 was the last date for filing nominations, while scrutiny of nomination papers will be conducted in accordance with the election schedule. Candidates may withdraw their nominations until June 11.
The BJP announced Sharda Devi's candidature on June 4 after the party's Central Election Committee approved her name for the election.
The BJP-led NDA continues to enjoy numerical superiority in the 60-member Manipur Legislative Assembly. The BJP has 37 MLAs of its own, while support from NDA allies and friendly legislators further strengthens its position, giving Sharda Devi a significant advantage in the contest.
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