Haryana BJP Nominates Rekha Sharma for Rajya Sabha Polls

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strategically nominated Rekha Sharma, a seasoned social activist and former National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson, as its Rajya Sabha candidate from Haryana, marking a significant political appointment.

Profile of a Dedicated Activist

Rekha Sharma, 60, brings a rich background of social service and women's advocacy to her new political role. An alumnus of DAV College, Dehradun, she graduated with a multidisciplinary degree in political science, history, and English literature, laying a strong foundation for her professional journey.

Pioneering Women's Rights

During her nine-year tenure at the NCW, Sharma made substantial contributions to women's welfare. She played a crucial role in gender sensitization programs, focusing on police personnel, prison inmates, and victims of violence. Her work involved conducting 50 detailed enquiries into women-related issues, particularly addressing challenges faced by women deserted by NRI husbands. 

Political and Social Landscape 

The Rajya Sabha seat became vacant after senior Scheduled Caste leader Krishan Lal Panwar won the Haryana Assembly poll from Israna in Panipat. The upcoming election on December 20 will determine Sharma's formal entry into national-level parliamentary representation.

Challenges and Controversies 

Throughout her NCW tenure, Sharma faced criticism from opposition parties regarding her approach to crimes against women in BJP-ruled states. Most recently, she encountered scrutiny over her response to violence in Manipur, a challenge she consistently addressed with professional commitment.

Strategic Political Positioning

Sharma's nomination reflects the BJP's approach to elevating women's voices in political representation. Her background as an Army officer's wife, combined with her extensive social work experience, positions her as a potential strong voice for women's issues at the national level.