Exit polls and political observers are
predicting a sure win for Surendra Singh Ahluwalia, the BJP candidate
from Darjeeling constituency, who received support from both the Gorkha
Janmukti Morcha and the Kamtapuri People’s Party in the recently
concluded general election.
The Echo of India recently met Ahluwalia
in Darjeeling where he agreed to speak a few words on the election and
his plans going forward.
EOI: Why did you choose to contest the election from Darjeeling?
Ahluwalia: It
was the party’s decision, but I too had wished to contest from
Darjeeling, which is such a lovely place and famous the world over as
the queen of the hills.
EOI: What is the first thing you would do for Darjeeling if you emerge victorious?
Ahluwalia: As a
representative, I don’t want to make false promises. I will not put my
electorate in any embarrassing situation. A man is known for his
activities, for his commitments. I will act as a bridge between the
government and the people to address the issues of my constituency.
EOI: How will you create more jobs/employment for the people of Darjeeling district?
Ahluwalia:
Where there is development, jobs are created automatically and for every
step towards achieving development, there should be people who are
ready to implement the work that is needed.
EOI: How will you provide better education?
Ahluwalia: The
initial infrastructure for quality education Darjeeling has been
providing over the years was started by the British and we shall
continue to maintain the same high standards. A central university, MBA
colleges and several other educational institutions can come up in the
hills.
EOI: How will you guarantee women’s empowerment in the hills?
Ahaluwalia: I
have noticed the women of Darjeeling district as very hardworking. Hence
we should involve them in every step on the path towards development.
EOI: The one thing about you people may not be aware of?
Ahluwalia: I never make false promises.
Source: EOIC)