Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Reveals Why She’s Not Contesting Lok Sabha Elections in an interview. She stated reasons such as financial constraints and concerns about meeting the “winnability criteria” in southern states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Sitharaman, currently serving her second term in the Rajya Sabha, had been approached by senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to consider contesting from a Lok Sabha constituency. However, after careful consideration, she decided against it.
When asked about her decision, Sitharaman revealed, “The party did ask me, but after thinking about it for a week or ten days, I said maybe not.” She further explained, “I don’t have that kind of money to contest. Whether it’s Andhra or Tamil Nadu, various winnability criteria come into play, including community and religious affiliations, which posed challenges for me.“
Acknowledging the party’s suggestion, she expressed gratitude for their understanding and acceptance of her reasons. “The party was graceful enough — and I am very grateful — to accept my arguments and say, ‘It’s alright.’ So I am not contesting,” she affirmed.
Sitharaman’s tenure in the Rajya Sabha will continue until June 2028, providing her with ample opportunity to serve in the Upper House.
Her decision not to contest reflects the complexities and challenges involved in electoral politics, including financial considerations and the diverse socio-political landscape of different regions.
Despite declining the offer to contest, Sitharaman remains committed to her responsibilities as the Union Finance Minister and continues to serve the nation through her role in the government.