Chandigarh
15 November 2024
DIVYA AZAD
A high-stakes atmosphere has emerged in the Chandigarh Club elections for the positions of President and Vice-President, following a “Mahadebate” held at the Chandigarh Press Club. This event, organized to allow candidates to present their promises and claims, intensified the anticipation for the prestigious club’s elections. The debate, held just before the scheduled election date of November 16, was marked by intense discussions, revelations, and controversies, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic election.
More than 150 club members attended, giving candidates an opportunity to clarify their viewpoints and respond to key issues raised by the members and moderator, Dr. Sachin Goyal. For the President’s position, candidates Naresh Choudhary and Randeep Chauhan faced tough questions, showing their willingness to engage, while the absence of third candidate Sunil Khanna sparked controversy. Khanna declined to participate at the last moment, allegedly unable to clarify statements regarding the approval of over 600 new memberships, a point of contention raised after the election date announcement. These memberships are under investigation, and Khanna, not a part of the governing body at that time, was reportedly not authorized to comment on the matter.
The Vice-President debate also saw unexpected developments as Advocate Karan Nanda, who initially agreed to participate, withdrew at the last moment, disappointing members eager to hear his stance on governance issues. Vice-President candidate Anurag Aggarwal faced intense questioning over his role in approving these memberships when he chaired the screening committee. Members pressed him on his accountability in preventing such irregularities. In a surprising moment, Aggarwal claimed he was informed about his chairmanship much later, raising further questions about accountability and oversight. In contrast, Anurag Chopra displayed a balanced approach, answering questions clearly and steering the discussion toward transparency and better governance.
The absence of Khanna and Advocate Nanda highlighted the preparedness of Choudhary, Chauhan, and other Vice-President candidates who were ready to engage with members’ concerns. This made it evident that the contest for President will remain focused between Choudhary and Chauhan, with Aggarwal’s Vice-Presidential candidacy also under close watch. The Mahadebate underscored a growing demand for integrity, accountability, and transparent leadership in the Chandigarh Club. With only two days remaining until the elections, the stakes are higher than ever.
