Rahul Gandhi’s decision to contest from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi has ignited controversy and drawn sharp remarks from various political quarters. Here’s a breakdown of the key developments and reactions surrounding this significant shift:
Rahul Gandhi, the former Congress chief, filed his nomination from Uttar Pradesh’s Rae Bareli constituency, a seat traditionally held by his mother Sonia Gandhi. This move marks a departure from his long-standing association with the Amethi constituency.
Prime Minister Modi’s Comment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at Gandhi’s decision, accusing him of fear and flight from Wayanad. Modi’s remarks mocked Gandhi’s strategic shift and drew attention to the political implications of such a move.
“I had already told you that the prince is looking for another seat for himself due to fear of defeat in Wayanad. Now he had to run away from Amethi and choose the Rae Bareli seat,” said PM Modi.
He added, “These people go around and tell everyone – Daro Mat! Don’t be afraid! I would say the same thing to them – Daro mat! Bhago mat! don’t be afraid! Do not run!” drawing loud cheers from the audience with his sarcastic remark aimed at the Congress leader.
Congress’s Defense
On the other hand, the Congress party defended Gandhi’s decision as a strategic maneuver. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted the party’s careful deliberation and emphasized the legacy and responsibility associated with Rae Bareli.
“Many people have many opinions on the news of Rahul Gandhi contesting elections from Rae Bareli. But he is a seasoned player of politics and chess. He makes his moves after careful consideration,” said Jairam Ramesh.
BJP’s Criticism
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh, criticized Gandhi’s move. Shah characterized it as a sign of the Congress party accepting defeat, while Singh mocked Gandhi’s decision as an act of evasion from the battlefield.
“Modi ji made one attempt, and Chandrayaan (mission to the Moon) was launched successfully. Sonia Gandhi has attempted to launch this ‘yaan’ called Rahul Baba (Rahul Gandhi) twenty times, but her attempts have not been successful,” said Amit Shah regarding Rahul Gandhi’s candidacy in Rae Bareli.
Smriti Irani’s Swipe
Smriti Irani, who defeated Rahul Gandhi in Amethi previously, questioned Gandhi’s belongingness to Rae Bareli and speculated on his shifting political narratives across different constituencies.
“The one who was rejected by Amethi and fled to Wayanad will never truly belong to Rae Bareli,” remarked Smriti Irani.
The absence of the Gandhi family in Amethi during this election cycle has been seen as a symbolic acknowledgment of Congress’s acknowledgment of defeat in the region.
“The absence of the Gandhi family from the election fray in Amethi indicates that the Congress party has acknowledged its defeat in Amethi even before the polling on the seat,” said Smriti Irani.
Rahul Gandhi’s strategic shift in candidacy has sparked a significant political debate, reflecting the intense dynamics and strategies at play in the ongoing electoral landscape.
The developments surrounding this move are likely to continue shaping political narratives and discussions as the election season progresses.