Shimla, June 28: The Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Dr. Rajesh Sharma, a senior Congress leader from Kangra district, as the new Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE). An official notification to this effect was issued on Saturday by the Education Department. The appointment has sparked renewed political activity within both the Congress ranks and Kangra district, and is being seen as a strategic move to maintain regional balance.
Dr. Sharma, known for his long-standing loyalty to the Congress party, is currently serving as the Treasurer of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee. He had contested the 2022 Assembly election from the Dehra constituency on a Congress ticket but lost. During the 2024 by-election in Dehra, the party ticket was ultimately awarded to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s wife, Kamlesh Thakur, at the last moment. Despite this, Dr. Sharma remained actively involved in the campaign, working for the party’s victory with dedication—though reports of his disappointment and emotional outburst among supporters had surfaced.
Political observers believe that his appointment is a recognition of his unwavering commitment and loyalty to the party. The decision is not only seen as an acknowledgment of his influence within the organisation, but also as part of the government’s strategy to reassert Kangra’s political importance.
Kangra has traditionally been a stronghold for the Congress, and Dr. Sharma’s active support during the Dehra bypoll sent a clear message about his continued relevance. Many saw it as a sign that he would be entrusted with a significant role in the near future.
Dr. Sharma has previously served as spokesperson of the state Congress and as Chairman of the Himachal chapter of the Professional Congress. He has played an active role in various organisational activities over the years.
The post of HPBOSE Chairman had remained vacant for nearly two and a half years. In the interim, Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa was handling the additional responsibility. Dr. Sharma’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm among party workers, especially those from Kangra, as it is viewed as a reward for consistent party engagement.
Chief Minister Sukhu’s move to give Kangra another prominent representation is also being interpreted as a message to party workers across the state: that loyalty, commitment, and organisational involvement will be duly acknowledged and rewarded. This political appointment is likely to play a crucial role in ensuring regional balance ahead of future political developments.
