The ongoing dilemma within the Gandhi family doesn’t seem to end anytime soon, particularly with recent statements made by Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi’s husband, Robert Vadra, regarding his potential candidacy in elections. The party is struggling with how to respond to Vadra’s remarks, given the familial implications involved.
Sources suggest that Vadra’s comments have unsettled the Gandhi family as well. Vadra’s consistent media interviews discussing his potential electoral bid in Amethi are perceived as exerting political pressure. Despite this, the party has resolved to contest elections in Rae Bareli and Amethi.
However, the ultimate decision rests with the Gandhi family. The scrutiny committee of Uttar Pradesh has forwarded only two names for these constituencies to the Central Election Committee, leaving the final decision to the Gandhi family.
Priyanka Gandhi’s name has been proposed for Rae Bareli, while Rahul’s name has been suggested for Amethi.
According to party sources, there is speculation that Priyanka may contest from Rae Bareli, while Rahul Gandhi or another candidate may also be considered. Meanwhile name of former MLA Deepak Singh, is being highlighted from Amethi. However, the party’s current trajectory suggests that there could be a deviation from the norm on these two seats.
Vadra’s prospects of securing a ticket seem bleak, as the Gandhi family is keen to avoid any controversies.
Additionally, while the Congress may have an advantage over the BJP in media coverage, its overall campaign is perceived to be weaker.
By the time the nomination process for Rae Bareli and Amethi begins, voting will have already occurred in the first and second phases in some Uttar Pradesh constituencies. Therefore, Congress is expected to finalize its decisions for Rae Bareli and Amethi after April 26, prompting questions about the delay.
One possibility being discussed is whether Varun Gandhi will contest as an independent candidate from either Rae Bareli or Amethi. Currently unwell, Varun Gandhi may make a decision in the coming week if he recovers. His recent statement expressing solidarity with the people of Pilibhit suggests that he may soon decide on his electoral plans. Given that his father, Sanjay Gandhi, contested elections from Amethi, there is speculation that Varun Gandhi might follow suit.
Experts even suggest that Varun might contest as an independent candidate with support from the entire India alliance, potentially prompting Congress to refrain from fielding any candidate in Amethi.
If this scenario unfolds, the elections in both Rae Bareli and Amethi would become particularly intriguing. Consequently, Congress has little to lose in Uttar Pradesh, and a victory for the opposition in both seats could bolster the strength of the Indian alliance.
