Gul Panag: A former Miss India with an agenda for Chandigarh

Gul Panag: A former Miss India with an agenda for Chandigarh
Sunday, April 06, 2014 15:54 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Gul Panag may be new to politics but the former Miss India has already proved she is no pushover in the election for Chandigarh's lone Lok Sabha seat.

When Gul -- as she is widely known -- entered politics as late as last month as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate, she had to hit the ground running.

It was very much needed. Both her main opponents, from the BJP and the Congress, are older to her and more experienced, and they have the backing of the country's two biggest political partties.

The Bollywood actor says she wants people, especially the media, to take her role as a politician seriously.

"I don't want to be judged as an actor or a former Miss India. Look at my work and see what agenda I have for the future and then take a decision," Gul, 35, tells voters in Chandigarh.

She has been adhering to a 20-hour work schedule for the last over 20 days to establish herself politically in Chandigarh.

Gul is fighting it out against outgoing MP and former union railway minister Pawan Bansal and the BJP's Kirron Kher for the April 10 election here.

Bansal, a four-time MP, is facing three women candidates, including the Bahujan Samaj Party's Jannat Jahan, in this election.

He is also dogged by the taint of "railgate" in which his nephew was caught by the CBI with Rs.90 lakh of bribe money in a cash-for-job scam.

"Pawan Bansal has not done enough for Chandigarh in the last 15 years. If I am elected as MP, I intend to take up the fighting role as MP," Gul, daughter of retired Lt. Gen H.S. Panag, told IANS here.


"In Chandigarh, there are good policies but there is a lack of intent in implementing them... The system in Chandigarh is run by unelected people," she pointed out.

On her own agenda for Chandigarh, Gul has a lot to say.

"This city has a clear divide of the elite sectors and others. We need to bring them at par in terms of development. Every part of Chandigarh should have a harmonious, inclusive growth. The citizens here need to be heard. Chandigarh has the potential to be a world class city," Gul said.

Starting her day early with visits to residential colonies and villages to listen to problems faced by the have-nots, Gul walks for most part of her daily campaign trail.

She is accompanied by a small group of supporters and activists, mostly family members, friends and AAP volunteers.

Once Chandigarh votes April 10, Gul has her work cut out. She will be campaigning for AAP candidates in Punjab and a few other places.
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT